Johnson, who spent a greater part of his playing career in Turkey’s Süper Lig with clubs such as Fernerbahce, Gaziantepspor and Kayserispor, explained that the Black Stars skipper’s latest move back to Europe was a perfect decision and prayed he succeeds.

Last week, the 31-year-old completed a two-year deal with the lowly-placed Turkish club, but Johnson told the Graphic Sports in an interview yesterday that the Süper Lig was very competitive and would make Gyan successful.

“I wish he had signed for a bigger club like Galatasaray or Fenerbahce because over there they have more quality players to help him perform well,” said the former Ghana international who spent eight years in Turkey.

With his experience in the Turkish league, having played also with Gyan’s new club, the former Hearts of Oak assistant trainer advised the Ghanaian hitman to allow his skill do the talking on the pitch and he would easily win the hearts of the fans.

Gyan will join a growing list of Ghanaian internationals including Johnson, Augustine Ahinful, Richard Kingson, Kwame Ayew, Yaw Preko, Stephen Appiah, Ohene Kennedy, Emmanuel Duah, Mathew Amoah, Habib Mohammed, Ahmed Barussso, Jerry Akaminko, John Boye, Samuel Inkoom, among others who have played or still playing in the Turkish league.

According to 43-year-old Johnson, the Turkish league was way ahead of the Asian leagues where Gyan had previously plied his trade but was convinced his qualities would be evident if his season was not truncated by injuries.

“The Turkish league is ahead and much difficult than the Chinese league because over there you fight and ran a lot,” noted the retired star who further advised the former Al Ahli player to work hard because it was the only way he would make an impact.

Gyan was given a rousing welcome by fans of the club at the weekend, and Johnson was hopeful the fans’ expectation would be met because the Ghana captain would be a hit in the Turkish league.

He said he was sure Gyan’s exploits could aid Kayserispor to become one of the top clubs in Turkey but advised the compatriot to take each game at a time and show his qualities.