Lawal: 'My new life in Belgrade' Part 2 February 12, 2010 AmaZulu FC website editor Thapelo Moloantoa continues to speak to Red Star Belgrade's Issah Lawal about his new life in Serbia, Ghana and the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

What do you miss most about South Africa?

I miss a lot of things but mostly the fun we had at AmaZulu, the supporters songs, the seaside, weather. Myself and Mpho Maleka used to hit the beach quite often, that was nice. I also miss the smiling faces around not to forgetting the team, the office staff, the DOGG himself (Clive Barker) and Neil Tovey.

How does it feel to play for a big club with such a great history?

Growing up as a kid I never thought I would play for a big club like this but I now I have the opportunity so I must give it all I have and make all the fans happy.

Have you played in the derby match against FK Partizan yet?



Yes I have, I never knew how big it was untill I saw the 60 000 capacity stadium as packed as it was. They were singing throughout, and there was red smoke all over the stands, it was crazy. I just remained myself and played my own game as usual. We told ourselves that we got to remember the language of the fans which is simple 'Keep Winning' and you won't have a problem with them. The first one we drew 1-1 and the fans burnt part of the stadium. Sometimes there is violence in the derby but the police are there to keep order on things.

Do you show emotion in the game much?

Yes I hate to lose, and when we lost some important games at AmaZulu I would shed a tear or two. But grew out of it after the senior players helped me to cope with it. I cried though when we lost 'Big Ben' Mkhwanazi, it was so sad and sudden.

Have the fans of Red Star got a nickname for you?

They just call me by my name. They use my name to make songs. But you will not understand anything if I have to sing it to you...hahaha!!

Do you think you have showed them the best of you yet?

Not yet, the best is yet to come. It will come with a lot of hard work though.

Does becoming manager interest you after playing career is finished, becoming a coach?

Not at all. Instead I will be doing sports science and if possible just be part physical trainers in a my community.

How much are you still passionate about playing in the 2010 FIFA World Cup for Ghana?

It is every player's dream to play for their national side and I am no exception. The move to this club has given a boost to my confidence so much that I will want to at least be part of the national team if not in the starting line-up. The thing though is that Ghana has a big number of excellent football players in the top European league - Spain, England, Italy, Germany and France - and if any fringe player can get the chance to play just once, then they consider themselves to be very very lucky.