The Imps have announced the loan signing of winger Bernard Mensah from Bristol Rovers until the end of the current season.
23-year old Mensah is no stranger to City, having appeared against us a number of times in the National League. He had two loan spells with Braintree in 2013/14 and 2014/15, then with Barnet in 2014/15 as well.
He finally secured a permanent deal, moving to Gary Waddock’s Aldershot Town in the summer of 2016. Whilst at The EBB Stadium, Mensah scored 17 times in 63 matches and quickly attracted many admirers. That lead to his move to Bristol Rovers in January of this year.
Mensah can play in a range of positions, as a centre forward, attacking midfielder or a winger, and has appeared nine times for the Gas, including one substitute appearance against Peterborough United on the opening day of the current season.
Why I think he’ll be an intelligent signing, apart from the weak play on his name, is the versatility he’ll offer. He’s clearly an impressive forward, a little in the Andrade mould in that he’s come from a London club, dropped out of the league and is now looking to prove himself.
Our strength in depth is provided by having players who can operate in a number of positions, for instance Kellan Gordon, Adam Crookes and Shay McCartan. Our squad isn’t huge in terms of numbers, but the different formations up front could be a major advantage.
In an interview with the Bristol Post after his January move, Mensah said: “I play everywhere! On the left, on the right, in midfield, just behind a striker, up top. So I can pretty much play all attacking areas really. But here it’s up to the gaffer, wherever he plays me I’ll be happy.”
I expect Mensah to figure prominently over the coming weeks, he was frightening for Aldershot in the 3-3 draw we had in November 2016, going on to score seven in 11 to secure them a play off place against Tranmere Rovers.
Gary I thought you said the other day that we couldn’t have any more loan signings?
I did Tim, I misunderstood the ruling I’m afraid. I thought the limit was five, but it is eight.