Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah has paid tribute to a man and woman who bought him his first pair of football boots.

In a social media post, Stephen Appiah noted that he would not have been as successful in his career if the man and woman had not supported him.

He expressed immense appreciation to the woman and man for the role they played in his life, noting that he owes them the success he has accomplished in his career.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without you. Your support came at a time when I needed it most. Your care and that first pair of boots will always be part of my story. Those boots weren’t just shoes; they were the start of a dream. Thank you for everything, Ataa Ago and Sister Aryeekaa,” he shared on social media.

Stephen Appiah is widely regarded as one of the most successful players in the history of the Black Stars, leading the team to two World Cups.

Appiah was the skipper when Ghana made its maiden appearance in the 2006 World Cup and also led the team to the 2010 World Cup.

At the club level, Stephen Appiah played for Juventus, Fenerbahçe, Udinese, and Bologna, among others.

In 67 appearances for Ghana, Stephen Appiah scored 15 goals for the country.

I wouldn’t be where I am today without you. Your support came at a time when I needed it most. Your care & that first pair of boots will always be part of my story. Those boots weren’t just shoes, they were the start of a dream. Thank you for everything Ataa Ago & Sister Aryeekaa pic.twitter.com/ND2DEjjFf1

— Stephen Appiah (@StephenAppiah) October 20, 2024