An intrepid West Ham United fan who travelled thousands of miles to watch one of the Premier League club’s new signings in action on international duty has seen his astonishing effort rewarded.
The supporter embarked on a 4,000-mile round trip from London to watch Ghana face the Central African Republic in Africa Cup of Nations qualifying, desperate to catch a glimpse of Mohammed Kudus, who signed for the Hammers from Ajax in late August.
The solitary West Ham supporter, Ian, generated quite a buzz at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, Ghana.
His presence even led to him answering questions from local journalists in the lead-up to the match.
“I am here to watch Mohammed Kudus, our new signing,” “He is very skilled and strong. We love him.
“West Ham are massive everywhere we go and I have come all the way from the UK to watch Mohammed Kudus and the Black Stars,” Ian told Ghanaweb.
Kudus, who recently made his debut for West Ham as a late substitute in a 2-1 victory over Luton Town just before the international break, represented the Black Stars in the match and even contributed a crucial equaliser in their comeback victory, scoring from a free-kick just before half-time.
After completing a 2,000-mile round trip and having an incredible story to share, it seemed like that might be the conclusion of the adventure.
However, upon learning about this extraordinary football pilgrimage, the Ghana Football Association intervened to acknowledge and reward this exceptional effort.
Arrangements were made for the fan to meet Kudus at the Black Stars’ camp and even receive the 23-year-old winger’s No. 20 jersey as a little added bonus. The shirt was then donned and photos were taken, complete with the pair making the “Irons” gesture.
“After making the journey from the UK to watch Mohammed in the AFCON qualifiers, this West Ham fan had the incredible opportunity to meet starboy Kudus!” the Ghana FA wrote on Instagram.