Motherwell defender Kofi Balmer, capped by Northern Ireland up to U21 level, carries a name with a deep cultural significance. The name “Kofi” is traditionally given to boys born on a Friday in Ghana, a nod to the Akan naming tradition. Remarkably, his parents named him after former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, inspired by the global leader’s legacy.

However, there’s a twist to this story: Balmer has no Ghanaian roots and was, in fact, born on a Tuesday. While his name may not align with its traditional origins, it adds a fascinating layer to his identity, blending cultural appreciation with a sense of humor and uniqueness.