Former Black Stars striker Junior Manuel Agogo finally joined his maker with a family funeral and cremation in London today September 20.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports sent a three member delegation which was led by deputy Minister of Sports Curtis Perry Okujdeto, with Lawyer Naa Odofoley Nortey, and Samuel Kuffour as the other members.

General Secretary of CAF and President of Professional Footballers Association of Ghana Anthony Baffoe was also in attendance.

Junior Agogo died last month after battling several years with stroke.

The Delegation from Ghana red a tribute from the sports minister on behalf of Ghanaians.

Below was the tribute from the ministry;

TRIBUTE BY THE MINISTRY OF YOUTH AND SPORTS TO THE LATE MANUEL AGOGO JUNIOR, A NATIONAL FOOTBALL PLAYER.

On behalf of the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the Government and the people of Ghana; the Ministry of Youth and Sports expresses its deepest regret and sorrow at the demise of Manuel Agogo Junior, one of the finest and most dedicated football players Ghana has ever had.

Junior Agogo made his debut for the Black Stars of Ghana in 2006 playing 27 matches for the Black Stars between 2006 and 2009.

His talent was not to be overshadowed and he scored a total of 12 goals as the ‘Number 9’ player for the squad during tours in Europe, East Asia, Australia and of course Africa.

The late Junior Agogo made a great contribution to the National Football Team and he was deservedly recognised as a dedicated member of the team by both the coaching staff and teammates.

His exceptional striking ability, work ethic and professionalism were also acknowledged by his trainers and peers.

Born in Ghana to the Agbotui family, he was the nephew of the First President of the Fourth Republic of Ghana

H.E. Jerry John Rawlings. He attended the Ridge Church School and St Augustine’s School before returning to the UK to begin what became a vibrant career in football.

Junior Agogo’s contribution to the Black Stars, and the ‘beautiful’ game cannot be erased in the history of Ghana football.

His name will always be fondly remembered by Ghanaians for his starring role in the Black Stars during the 2008 African Cup of Nations when his 3 goals secured Ghana a place in the FIFA World Cup in 2010.

Throughout his decades long football career, he played for teams in England, Scotland, Egypt, Cyprus and America scoring over 140 goals and firmly cementing his place in the history books of football gaining three club honours and countless accolades.

His unwavering dedication and professionalism won the admiration of the entire football fraternity and fans globally and today, as we mourn the tragedy that has befallen our nation, let us also celebrate our national hero for the talent, skill and youthful exuberance he brought to our footballing nation.

He will be remembered as much for his character as he will for his hunger to excel both as a player and a team-mate.

Junior Agogo was a player who left a mark on countless individuals both on and off the football pitch and in this time of national grief for our departed star, we urge the bereaved family to take consolation in the fact that, Junior Agogo served his nation well and he has earned the undying gratitude of the Government, people of Ghana and an international following that will keep his name and spirit alive.

May you find eternal peace as you journey to your maker.

Fare thee well Junior Agogo.