Celtic can be a stepping stone to Qatar for Cudjoe
Mathew Cudjoe is determined to make his mark against Celtic, and boost his chances of realising his World Cup dream with Ghana.
The skilful midfielder was snapped up by Dundee United last November, and has featured five times so far this season.
Cudjoe has already represented his country at Under-20 level, and he hopes to be called up to the full squad ahead of Qatar.
Today’s game at Tannadice will be shown live on TV in Ghana, and Cudjoe believes it is the perfect opportunity to impress his family, friends and national coach, Otto Addo.
Cudjoe said: “I watched Celtic playing in the Champions League when I was growing up. They are still a big team with some great players.
“The game is live back home, so there is a big incentive for me to do well. My mum and brothers will be tuning in, so hopefully I can play well.
“My dream is to be part of the World Cup with Ghana, so these are the sort of games where I can make a big impression.
“Certainly if we can get a good result against Celtic and I do well, then that can only help me.”
Cudjoe and United will need a dramatic upturn in form to have a chance of upsetting the odds.
The Tangerines have lost their last four games, conceding 15 goals in the process, while the Hoops have won their opening four Premiership matches.
However, the 18-yearold insists the United players retain the belief and confidence that they can produce a shock result.
He said: “We are ready. We know it is a big match, but we just have to be really focused and ready to fight for everything.
“I believe in myself whenever I go onto the pitch, and I want to achieve things with United.
“It is a good game to have as a team. It will be incredibly tough, but anything can happen in football.
“So we just need to believe in ourselves. Our confidence is still high.”
While United have suffered an earlyseason slump, Cudjoe is happy with how he has performed under new boss, Jack Ross.
“I started well but unfortunately we have lost a few games,” he said. “That is part of football, but if we continue to work hard, it should turn.
“Better results could just be around the corner.
“The new manager has played me, and that gives me confidence. He is giving me the opportunities, so I have to deliver on the pitch.”