By Paul Cooper

Following the news of former SPL player Fabian Caballero’s devastating death last week fans are still sharing fond memories of the South American’s time with Dundee.

Caballero was one of the greatest players ever to play in Scotland during two spells at Dens between 2000 and 2005 and his death at only 46 has left supporters bewildered.

Kris Boyle, owner of ‘Scotland’s first vintage trainer shop’ Dundee Sole, recalls the time he was commissioned to make custom boots for Cab upon his return to Tayside in April 2018.

That weekend Caballero was back in town for a Shwarzkopf ‘Shaping Futures’ charity event organised by local hair salon owner Rhys Davidson.

On the Saturday he played for a Dundee X1 against players from Tayport and Lochee United at Thomson Park in aid of the charity.

Kris said: “When I started the page, because it had the Dundee link, he (Caballero) followed us. He seen what I was doing with the customs (and) must’ve got somebody to message us as the guy did not speak English!

“At the time there was two pairs of boots made, ‘Fab Cab’ on the tongue, Caballero where the gold lettering would be and number 7 on the back, he loved them.”

Kris also disclosed what it meant to be asked to make boots for his idol, continuing: “Yeah, it was pretty surreal at the start to be fair, he was like my childhood hero.”

Another ‘Dee fan Murray Boyle, who worked with ex-players when they appeared at the Dens Park hospitality lounges, also wanted to share his thoughts about Cab.

He said: “Cab was just a legend at Dundee, the years he played for us were the best years as a fan.

“Imagine what he would be worth now, he was unplayable.”

Call the UWS Newsroom on 01292 886391 to talk about your ‘Fab Cab’ memories.