Bala dealt blow as key player departs for Hereford
WREXHAM, WALES - 28 JANUARY 2023: Bala Town's Lassana Mendes during the Nathaniel MG Cup final between Bala Town & Connah's Quay Nomads at the The Rock Stadium, January 28th, 2023, Wrexham, Wales (Pic By John Smith/FAW)
Lassana Mendes has departed Bala Town for English non-league club Hereford.
Former Birmingham City defender Paul Caddis has been appointed manager of the Bulls and his first action has been to sign Mendes from the Lakesiders.
Mendes has penned a one-year deal and his move is subject to FA approval and international clearance. His move to Edgar Street ends a four-year association at Maes Tegid.
“I am very happy and excited to play for such a big club and looking forward to work with a well-respected manager,” said Mendes to Hereford’s official club website.
“I can’t wait to get started and to meet the fans and show them my hard work and dedication.”
The 30-year-old made 103 league appearances for Bala and got 15 goals and 32 assists. He featured in the side that beat Valletta and was involved in three European campaigns.
He was at Colwyn Bay before moving to Bala in the summer of 2019, though that was in the English pyramid system. Mendes once had a trial period at Crewe Alexandra and had spells in Spain and the English non-league system.
Paul Caddis added:“Lassana will bring an abundance of enthusiasm to our squad this season. I have no doubts with his infectious character the fans will take to him instantly.
“He’s a hard-working wide midfielder with Europa League experience who will bring quality to us at the top end of the pitch.
‘Lass’ loves to excite supporters and I can’t wait to see him in action for our club.
“He’s a player that you always want to be in your team and not up against you. His work ethic and reactions to win the ball back is something I find really refreshing to see from a forward-thinking player so that shows he’s not afraid of hard work.”
