Prince Buaben is hoping to have a winner’s medal with him when he makes an emotional return to Ghana for the first time since the death of his father.
The Dundee United midfielder made the heartbreaking decision not to attend the funeral in Africa after his father Christian passed away at the end of March.
It was one of the most difficult things he has had to do in his young life, but he stayed and played a starring role a fortnight later when United beat Raith Rovers in the Scottish Cup semi-final.
He vowed to return to Africa after the final and hopes to be carrying a precious piece of silver to show his loved ones.
Buaben said, “Some people did say stuff to me like, ‘Why did you not go to your dad’s funeral?’
“When I heard about what had happened, though, I spoke with my mum and she said to me that my dad wanted me to be a great person and work hard in whatever I do.
“She told me to stay and that it wasn’t a big deal because my dad would be with me whatever. She said to finish the season then go back and be with the family.
“Two years ago I went back to Ghana to see him and spent a lot of time with him.
“During those few days I was really happy and he was a great dad, like a friend to me.”
He added, “He will be in my thoughts on Saturday. Thinking that he will be with me gives me loads of confidence and hopefully, somehow, he will bring the whole team luck.
“After the final I hope to go back to see the family and hopefully I will be taking my medal to show them.”
“I know they are really praying for us to win.”
Buaben discovered recently that he will not, after all, be heading to the World Cup.
Until Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac named his preliminary squad of 29 for the finals, there was hope for the Tannadice midfielder.
However, Buaben feels the Scottish Cup will compensate for missing out on South Africa next month.
He said, “With the likes of (Buaben’s hero) Michael Essien available it was always going to be tough to get in but I may make it in future.
“I don’t even know if I will be able to watch the World Cup because I hate watching football.
“Every time I do I have to move my foot about as if kicking the ball. Playing is what matters for me.
“But I pray for my country that they do well.”
He added, “I have to think about my next step and for me it is Saturday. If we win I will be so happy.
“It will be compensation for me for missing out on the World Cup if we can win the Scottish Cup.”