Your fans in Liberia and
around the world are all waiting to hear from you about some issues
that need to be clear up in the press. This is an opportunity for
you to set the record straight. Thanks for accepting our request for
an interview.
You are
welcome.......anytime!
It has been reported recently that your
relationship with the MLS club, Real Salt Lake has ended; this was
your 1st Professional contract. Is this a disappointment?
Yes it is
a bit of a disappointment for me. I became very close with a lot of
fans and friends in the community so I’m sad to be leaving Salt
Lake. This is a business these things happen and it was no surprise
to me because I initiated the release.
Are you planning to stay
in the MLS or move overseas?
I will not
be playing in MLS for the ‘08 season. I am studying several options
and scenarios; however my ultimate goal is land a gig in Europe.
The Liberian Press
reported that the reason you were cut was because the team wanted to
use an American player at the position?
That
is absolutely incorrect
as I stated earlier
I initiated the release. I made the decision based on certain
factors. Honestly, I believe this decision was in my best interest
and I look forward continuing my career elsewhere.
You have been invited to play for Liberia, recently a press
report from the Star Radio station in Liberia said that you chose
club over country as a reason to not honor the call to play for you
native land. Is this factual?
This isn’t
factual. I don’t know what happen between Real Salt Lake and the
Liberian Federation. According to the front office at Real Salt
Lake they didn’t receive any forms asking for my release. I want to
make it emphatically clear to fans of Liberian soccer I will never
refuse to play for my dear country Liberia.
Liberia is bringing in a foreign
coach to take over the Lone Star for the world cup qualifiers. Have
you been contacted and what is your Opinion of this development?
I haven’t
been contacted by anyone in the federation directly. I am a
professional athlete when called upon I will play for Liberia
regardless of who is in charge. However, I personally think it is
good idea although I know some people have different opinions. I
think you have to look at it from a positive perspective. I think
the coach could bring a different personality, approach, and
mentality to the team
You are a young
player and played alongside a veteran Defender Eddie Pope, can you
describe the experience?
It
was one of the best experiences in my life. Not many people can say
they play alongside a World Cup veteran. He’s someone any young
player like myself can learn from on and off the soccer field.
Having Eddie around meant a lot to me. We still keep in touch. I
consider him a mentor.
You have played central defense and
left full back. Are you a Natural left footer and what is your
preferred position?
Yes I
played left back not central defense and I am naturally left footed.
I’ve also played left-midfield. I just prefer using my speed and
athletes to get up and down the wings.
When did you leave Liberia and when was
the last time you visited Liberia? Do you still have family in
Liberia that you are in contact with?
I left
Liberia in 1990. I haven’t been back since I left. I do have family
over there that I have been in contact with since I left. Returning
for the first time and playing for the National Team would be a
perfect reunion.(laughing)
Before I let you off the hot seat, what
is your favorite Liberian dish?
My
favorite Liberian dish is cassava leaf.
Willis thanks for taking time out of our busy schedule to do this
interview with Liberiansoccer.com wishes you the best!
It was a
pleasure, thanks for having me!
