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Players Abroad of Tuesday, 15 September 2009

Source: pressandjournal.co.uk

Buaben can give Scots something to cheer in World Cup

Prince Buaben has revealed Scottish football fans are rallying behind his bid to be involved in the World Cup finals – and knows he will carry the support of the Scots nation should Ghana draw England.

The Dundee United midfielder has already received messages from the club's fans wishing him luck in his bid to be involved in South Africa and it appears the Tangerine half of Dundee will be firm Ghana fans for a month next year.

Buaben, who contracted malaria two months ago, was outstanding against Celtic last weekend, producing the kind of performance which will do him no harm in his quest to win a place at the greatest sporting event on the planet.

The 21-year-old former Ajax player has enjoyed a

meteoric rise to fame since arriving at Tannadice two years ago and has already been capped for his country.

He missed out on another international appearance last month when club commitments prevented him from playing against Zambia in London, but Ghana manager Milovan Rajevac has assured the player he is being considered.

Buaben said: “Since Scotland are not in the World Cup, fans have been saying to me come on Prince get in the Ghana squad and we'll support you next summer.

“That made me feel really good and I suppose if I can get there and we play England everyone in Scotland will support me.

“It will be difficult to get into the national squad for a big tournament so I need to work as hard as I can.

“I spoke to the Ghana manager a few weeks ago to apologize for not being able to make the squad for the friendly in London.

“He said it was okay and to just keep working hard because he will have me in his mind for future games.

“He says that he's going to watch me and if I do well in the big games then that will help my case. I love playing for Ghana and it would be a dream to get a place in the World Cup.

“Things have happened very quick for me so it's amazing to think I have a chance of being there next summer."

Buaben was pleased with his performance at Parkhead and is delighted to be holding down a regular place in Craig Levein’s side.

The midfielder was a bit-part player last season but has upped his workrate and being a year older has seen him flourish this term.

He said: “I was very happy with the way I played against Celtic, but I am only one part of the team and everyone did well.

“I feel I have improved this season and am doing the things the manager wants me to. I have been working much harder on my game and hopefully I can take it from here.

“I love playing in big games. The atmosphere is fantastic and it's a great opportunity to test yourself against the best players."