Mensah: David Villa among the best strikers in the world

Columbus Crew defender Jonathan Mensah has hailed New York City FC striker David Villa Sanchez, narrating the trouble in facing the Spaniard.

The two men last came face to face in November when their sides met in Major League Soccer Cup - Conference semifinals.

Although Crew emerged victorious on a 4-3 aggregate, on personal level, it was Villa who went home the happier man as he netted in both home and away fixtures.

“That guy [Villa] is something else," Mensah told TV3.

"He tries to catch me off with his pace and I also try to stop him with my power.

“He is an amazing player and it's difficult playing against him, he is very quick, he's got skills and is very sharp as well.

“For me, I think he is one of the best strikers in the world and he is doing amazing in the MLS.”

Mensah also shed light on being adjudged Crew Humanitarian Player of The Year at the end of the season.

“For me, I always like to share and always like to help those in need, it has been part of me and I have been living with it," said the centre-back.

“Before every season, we are given forms asking us what kind of charity works we want to do to fill because the club also have their own foundation.

“They monitored my works and at the end of the season, they gave me an award for that. I am very happy.

“Getting rewarded for something you like doing is just a great feeling and I am very happy.”

Mensah joined Crew in February. He made 31 league appearances involving 30 starts and two goals for the Black and Gold in his first campaign.