Concord Times (Freetown)
11 July 2011
Freetown — Former Premiership star Alhassan Bangura insists he can help lead perennial Blue Square Premier strugglers Forest Green to promotion after being reunited with his footballing father-figure.
Forest Green boss Dave Hockaday has known the 23-year-old since working with the player in Watford’s academy, and the close relationship between the pair rubber-stamped a two-year deal for the midfield enforcer at the New Lawn on Friday.
Bangura, who also had spells with Brighton and Blackpool, said: “I regard Hocky (Dave Hockaday) as a dad for my career. He has always kept in touch with me and been there for me if I’m unhappy or need advice.”
He said: “Hocky has been on my phone for the last eight or nine months trying to get me to return. I had offers to go on trial with Charlton and Notts County, but Hocky offered me stability and hopefully I can enjoy my football again and help take Forest Green to promotion.”
The likeable Bangura expects to be a marked man next season for football reasons, but this proposition holds no fears.
He said: “I expect to be given a tough time, but if an opponent attempts to smash me I will get up and smile at them.”
Rovers boss Hockaday feels Bangura will take his side to a different level.
“Al Bangura will be a top-notch signing, capable of taking us to a level most people would be scared to dream of. Al is good enough to still be playing in the Premier League in my opinion.
“He has lost his way for reasons beyond the comprehension of most of us, and it is no exaggeration to say his life was in danger.”
The Sierra Leone international made 62 appearances for Watford, 16 of them in the Premier League in 2006/07 and he was voted Supporters’ Player of the Year the previous season as he helped them to a play-off final glory.
He had been playing for Gabala in Azerbaijan managed by former Arsenal and England legend Tony Adams. After a short spell in the Turkish league with Mersin, he was keen to return to England.
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Al Bangura Talks of His Move to Forest Green Ministry