Hailing from Ghana, West Africa; Toledo Villa wingback Derrick Mensah has started three matches for Toledo Villa FC this season and scored in a 4-1 win at Buffalo on June 10.

Mensah comes to Toledo having previously been a player for West Africa Football Academy (WAFA SC) in the Ghana Premier League. and had a trial with the MLS' DC United this spring.

Q: What brought you to TVFC and what do you want to get out of your USL2 experience?

MENSAH: It was before Summer Academy. I'm currently in Ghana, West Africa. I was trying to find a place to have a contract, then my agent told me about the opportunity. The team got in touch with my family and my agent. They talked to Coach Johnson and he said, I should come here. So hopefully being here is for the best and we are giving a lot to see what we can do as the next step.

Q: How does this level of play compare to where you were playing in Ghana?

MENSAH: Africa is really tough. And here too, it is not easy. Every game is not an easy game. You have to be focused, you have to be going all out. And I know there's a lot of opportunities here so we have to work hard. It is the USL2, so you can't relax in any match.  You have to keep on and I see every game there is intensity and every game is hard.

Q: Describe what kind of player you are and what helped you find how to play the way you play?

MENSAH: Yeah, I love playing a lot. In terms of pressing I can handle a ball and also I'm strong and I like to enjoy the game. I like to enjoy football. I always want the ball and do whatever I can do with the ball and help the team.

Q: What are some things about Toledo you have been able to enjoy so far?

MENSAH: I've not gone outside a lot but here is a good place though. I just roam around where I'm staying mostly and hang with my roommate Ali. We went to watch some movies and we went out for some food. I'm enjoying this city.

Catch Derrick and the rest of the team in action Saturday at 7pm at Paul Hotmer Stadium as we host the Dayton Dutch Lions. Tickets are still available to purchase here: https://toledovillafc.com/tickets