HE might not be as strong and famous as Chelsea star, Michael Essien, but when it comes to getting the job done, Dundee United's Prince Buaben makes sure he executes the job to perfection. Initially dubbed the next big thing, Buaben is doing well with excellent day to day performances for his club in the Scottish Premier League. In an exclusive interview with 90 MINUTES, the 21-year old revealed the secret to his outstanding campaign so far.

“Well, at the beginning of the season, things didn't go my way but during the second half of the season, I started getting a look in the team and I'm making the most out of it,” he said. “There's been some ups and downs but things are better now. It's just hard work.” Dundee United play Laryea Kingston's Heart of Midlothian this Saturday and Prince had a few words for his Ghanaian compatriot.

“We need to play in the Europa Cup next season which means we should win all our remaining matches. I called Laryea and told him that despite him being my idol and good friend, it doesn't mean if I get the chance to kick him, I won't, because I will,” he added.

Buaben expressed his readiness to feature for the Black Stars any time he's invited to don the national colours. He took the opportunity to debunk stories of him turning his back on the national team. “It's always a joy to play for my country of birth but some people back home are claiming that I intentionally turned down a recent invitation to play for the Black Stars,” he explained.

“The truth is I had an invitation from the FA but at that particular moment, I had some problems with my manager which made it impossible to turn up. At this moment, things are okay and I'm aware I need to work hard to get back into the team as Ghana boasts of some of the finest midfield players in the world.” Buaben ended by saying Ghanaians should get behind our captain in these difficult moments. “Ghanaians should understand and support Appiah because injury is the worst part in any footballer's life. I have seen him play and for me, he is one of the best players to ever grace the land”