Archived News from March 2005
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DEREK`S HAVING A BALL AT CITY
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DEREK'S HAVING A BALL AT CITY
LINCS ECHO New-boy Derek Asamoah insists he can add a new dimension to Lincoln City's frontline. The 23-year-old was pitched straight into the fray at Southend United on Saturday, just 24 hours after arriving at the club from League Two rivals Mansfield Town. The point from the 1-1 draw at Roots Hall was enough to maintain City's place in the play-off positions and, although the Imps already have five senior strikers on the books, Asamoah believes his electric pace can provide something extra. "It's an exciting time for Lincoln City because they are well-placed and the belief is we can still win automatic promotion," said the Ghana-born frontman. "There are a lot of good players here and the competition for places is demanding. "However, I think I can bring a new dimension to the side. "I have good pace and I like running at defenders. I also think I can be a good outlet and relieve the defence when needed. "I was a little surprised to go straight into the team on Saturday. I arrived at the ground on Friday to complete the signing and then I was straight on the team bus to Southend. "I've played against most of the lads before, but the only one I knew was Guy Ipoua who had a loan spell at Mansfield this season. "However, I was made to feel very welcome and I'm sure it won't be long before I settle in. I'm looking forward to training this week so I can get to know everyone and the players can see what I like to do as well." Asamoah's exit from Field Mill followed a public bust-up with newly-installed manager Carlton Palmer. The former Sheffield Wednesday, Leeds and England international questioned the player's attitude, placed him on the transfer list and claimed he would never play for the Stags again. "I don't want to go into too many details, but it was very upsetting and I hope I never have to leave a club under those circumstances again," conceded Asamoah. "There were obviously differences of opinion between myself and Carlton Palmer. "Words were said I was very unhappy with, but the most disappointing thing was that it was all made public. But that's the way he seems to deal with matters. "I had no hesitation in joining Lincoln once I knew they were interested. "I've been impressed when I have seen them play and heard a lot of good things about the manager, Keith Alexander, who was a big factor in deciding to come here. "Not only that, Lincoln is close to Mansfield where I'm still living." Strikers Karl Bermingham and Guy Ipoua have left the Imps at the end of their respective one-month loan deals. Manchester City frontman Bermingham (19) managed just two substitute appearances, while Doncaster Rovers striker Ipoua (29) made six appearances, also off the bench, without finding the net. "Karl wants to go back to City and prove himself to caretaker/manager Stuart Pearce," said Imps boss Keith Alexander. "Guy also wants to return. I needed bodies when I signed them but I've not had the chance to play them as regularly as they would have liked." |
Latest | March 2005