Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan hopes he's not overtaken by events off the pitch following the passing of his mother on Tuesday.
Madam Cecilia Love Amoako passed away Tuesday at the Ridge Hospital on Tuesday following a motor accident in Accra.
Gyan, who has been excused by the national team for next Tuesday's international friendly against Cape Verde in Portugal has joined his family after arriving in the country Friday morning.
Though hurt by the incident, Gyan is keeping his focus as he tries to rally the rest of the grieving family.
“It is a big shock as everybody knows but in life you need to experience bitterness not always expecting happiness,” a sober Gyan said.
“When I heard the news it was strange to me and a shock. But as a footballer you don't go on to the pitch with your emotions. [I] will concentrate on my career and [I] even scored two goals yesterday [Thursday] for my club - Al Ain - which tells you how strong I am.”
Gyan, who was planning of joining the mum celebrate her 61st birthday on Friday has however assured Ghanaians that he remains focused on performing for the Black Stars at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.
“I am close to my mum and was coming to celebrate her birthday today [Friday]. But am focused to deliver in AFCON 2013,” he said.