Lord of the Dance
Player Profile - Derrick Williams - the Waterford man tearing up the MLS
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Player Profile - Derrick Williams - the Waterford man tearing up the MLS

DERRICK WILLIAMS is enjoying life in America.

Sometimes all you need in football is a change of scenery. And though it's still early doors, Derrick Williams might have gotten the break he needs.

Moving around the world is nothing new to him. His dad worked in the US Army, so he moved regularly during spells in Germany and the United States. In 2000, when Williams was seven years old, the family eventually settled in Waterford.

No better place...

He then did the rounds in England, probably doing his best work in Blackburn, before moving over to sunny California to play for LA Galaxy.

And it is going very well for him.

This tackle/assist from their last game set up former Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Javier Hernandez to score a lovely goal. It sent the crowd WILD.

A thing of beauty...

The Angel City Brigade, a popular LA Galaxy fan page, are more than happy with what Williams has done for the club so far.

They said: "Derrick Williams had a rocky start against Seattle, but it was expected after not playing for a bit. He definitely stepped it up against LAFC. That slide tackle / assist was a thing of beauty. You can really see him fitting into that center back spot.

"You should have heard the roar when the pass got to Chicha’s feet for the goal. He had so many plays where he effectively disrupted any play coming near him. I'm very impressed after this last game and excited to see how adjusts to the league.

"The defensive line for the LA Galaxy has had lots of turn over recently. It’s a been a primary focus for Coach Vanney. If Derrick can stay healthy, and we get him a strong supporting cast, our defense will be much better than what we’ve had the last few seasons."

It's clear that he is enjoying life Stateside, and while he has made a few appearances for Ireland (and even got himself a nice goal against New Zealand), maybe he will be challenging for a spot in the Starting 11 before long.

And if he keeps going the way he is in LA, maybe his moving days are over...