Ghana defender Harrison Afful has dismissed claims the MLS is a retirement league for fading global stars hanging on for a final payday.
The 29-year-old, who joined Columbus Crew from African side Esperance, emerged as the best right-back in the American top-flight in his debut season.
The Ghana international has been amazed about the level of competitiveness in the league and says it’s not for pensioners.
“Back in Ghana, there is a lot of talk that if you are coming to MLS, you are coming to retire,” Afful said.
“That is the emotion behind all of this. But when I came here, I saw a different thing. It’s very competitive. It’s really nice to play here. For me, in some years, it’ll be one of the greatest leagues in the world.
“I knew I what I was coming here to do, I knew what the expectations were before I got here. I knew it was a big challenge for me, but I’m someone who likes challenges. When it comes my way, I just have to stay on my feet and show that I can deliver on the field.”
The former Asante Kotoko defender was influential for Crew despite their MLS final defeat to Portland Timbers last Sunday.
By Patrick Akoto, follow on twitter@Patakoto1