How Joshua Tswasam struggled with playing time because of his father’s death-Atsu’s wife recounts

Late Christian Atsu’s surviving wife, Claire Marie Rupio has revealed that Joshua Twasam did not have it easy when he was adjudged the best player of the Northumberland Football League in London due to his father’s death.

“The boys do struggle. They really struggle from the effects of their father’s demise.”

Joshua Twasam won the Player of the Year award of the Northumberland Football League when his team emerged victorious in the Motive Pro8 tournament’s final in February 2023.

According to Ms Rupio, Joshua had struggled to make an impact with playing when the league began as he was yet to come to terms with his dad’s demise.

“He sometimes forgets Christian has passed and was always making attempts to talk to him on phone. I would have to remind him that he cannot speak to him on a mobile device but Christian can hear him without the phone,” the widow narrates.

However, determined to make his late dad proud, Joshua strived for recognition after putting up remarkable performances to merit the best player award.

The award was also a sort of consolation for Ms Rupio who could not hide her joy at the announcement of Joshua being crowned the player of the year.

“I was so excited when Joshua was mentioned for the award. The whole family was happy,” Ms. Rupio told crimecheckghana.org with excitement.

The Northumberland Football League hosts Mini Soccer and Youth Leagues and programmes in England. It offers opportunities for children and teenagers from all backgrounds to engage in football.

The Northumberland Football Association serves as the governing body of the league.

Christian Atsu’s demise

Christian Atsu died in Turkey early February 2023 after a devastating twin earthquake struck the country. He was honoured with a state burial for his contribution to the Black Stars.