Written by Ricky Carroll
Derek Asamoah has played - all over the world throughout his career, and at the age of 41 - there seems to be no sign of him slowing down as he has just scored a bucket load of goals to help New Salamis win the Spartan South Midlands League. Asamoah undertook his footballing education at the Protec Academy in North London. While at Protec, he played semi-professional football with Hampton and Richmond and later with Slough Town. He went on to earn his first professional contract with Northampton Town, which saw Derek go on to make over 100 appearances for the club. He went on to play for several clubs in the football league, including Shrewsbury and Chester. While at Chester, Derek's goals miraculously saved the club from relegation from the football league. He went on to have productive spells with Locomotiv Sofia and Carlisle United. Derek has operated as a striker or wide attacker during his career. His pace and trickery are two of his most prominent assets. In saving Chester from relegation - he was hailed as a messiah by the club's supporters. His pace ensured he was a nightmare to mark for opposition defenders. He possesses exceptional movement off the ball, which was seen at Anfield in a cup game against Liverpool - when he peeled off the Liverpool defenders into space before firing home to equalise for Carlisle in front of the Kop! Derek has always shown great ability at dropping deep to pick up the ball before turning and driving at the opposition defence - maximising his electric pace and vast skillset! Derek's experience and class in front of goal have been a vital component - in this historic title-winning season for New Salamis. He is an accomplished finisher and has shown his predatory instincts in front of goal, scoring 29 times in 33 starts. Despite his diminutive stature, he holds the ball up brilliantly. His hold up play was seen to deadly effect against Dunstable this season - backing into the defender before laying the ball off and getting it back. He then proceeded to curl a beautiful shot past the opposition goalkeeper, making it 2-1 to New Salamis. His experience has been vital to New Salamis this season. He has shown on numerous occasions he can pin back the center backs by backing into them and holding the ball up. He is constantly looking to run in behind, which is a vital outlet for his teammates! New Salamis ruled Sunday league football, and now they are making their mark in Saturday football. For the 2022-23 season, they will compete in the Isthmian North Division - having players with the experience of Derek Asamoah will be vital to the continued success of New Salamis!
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