Gambian goalkeeper Ahmed Savage is edging closer to a potential international switch to Liberia’s Lone Stars, should the opportunity formally arise.
Savage, who was born and raised in The Gambia, is eligible to represent three countries:
The Gambia, through his mother. Sierra Leone, through his father & Liberia, through residency and his professional career in the country.
The interest from Liberia has intensified in recent months. Savage is currently regarded as one of the top goalkeepers in the Liberian league, prompting officials from the Liberia Football Association (LFA) and the national team coaching staff to make direct approaches for the FC Fassell shot-stopper.
With a series of interviews conducted both in Liberia and The Gambia, Savage admits his decision is nearing a conclusion, with the next international window expected to be decisive.
“Demands have been coming since my first game here, for me to naturalize. Officials from the LFA and national team coach Thomas have reached out personally and spoken to the relevant authorities to see that it happens,” Savage said.
“If the chance comes, I will go for it 100%. I am not waiting for The Gambia. Everyone sees what I am doing, and they are not paying attention — not the U20s, not the CHAN. So therefore, I will take Liberia if they come.”
Now 27 years old, Savage has built an impressive career across West Africa. In The Gambia, he featured for Real de Banjul, Wallidan, and Gambinos before spending three seasons in Senegal with AS Ouakam. He later had a brief spell in Mali before signing a three-year deal with Liberian champions FC Fassell.
His impact in Liberia has been immediate and remarkable. During the 2024/25 season, Savage helped FC Fassell secure the league title and was voted:
Best Goalkeeper of the Season
Best Foreign Player of the Year
Named in the League Best XI
He achieved a similar feat during his second season with AS Ouakam, where he finished among the top five goalkeepers in the Senegalese league.
Last season, Savage had an impressive form, recording 15 clean sheets in 25 matches, and currently leading the golden glove chart with nine clean sheets in 14 games. He also played a key role in FC Fassell’s pre-season tournament victory, earning the Golden Glove award.
“I returned everything to the Almighty for his favour. I am happy to make an impact by winning such an award. I left my country to play abroad, and such accolades are nice to win,” he said.
“I believe in myself. I put a lot of hard work into training, and my journey and experience have shaped me into the player I am today.”
Interestingly, Savage began his career as an outfield player before transitioning into goalkeeping. That background has made him exceptionally comfortable with the ball at his feet, confident on both sides, and vocal in organizing his defence.
Looking ahead, Savage remains ambitious.
“I want to play in Europe. At the end of the season, I am praying and hoping to see myself in a higher league, and I am working towards that.”
He also reflected on his time in Liberia and the influence of Gambian coaching legend Tafa Manneh, one of the most successful coaches in the country’s football history.
“When I arrived, I was reminded of Tafa Manneh — his trophies, records, and achievements. My first match happened to be against him when he was with Bea Mountain. We won 1–0, and I later recorded two more victories against his team.”
Savage believes Liberian football is on an upward trajectory.
“Football in Liberia is progressing and developing. The league is good, competitive, and intense. Clubs are paying players well, and there’s a strong blend of young talent and experience.
