Dheeraj Singh's triumphant return: FCGoa's Goalkeeper reflects on comeback and coach Marquez's endorsement
Panaji: In a thrilling comeback match against Mumbai City FC, FCGoa's goalkeeper, Dheeraj Singh, finally seized the opportunity to showcase his prowess on the field. Today, in an exclusive conversation with FCGoa's head coach, Manolo Marquez, Dheeraj poured his heart out about his long-awaited return this season.
As FCGoa inches closer to the playoffs, Dheeraj expressed his gratitude for the chance to contribute to the team's success. He acknowledged the admirable performance of goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh, who managed seven clean sheets, emphasizing the importance of team unity and performance over individual achievements. Dheeraj stated, "I've been waiting for this opportunity, trying to improve myself in areas where I could, and finally, I got a chance. It's time for me to utilize this opportunity and do better."
Highlighting the critical juncture in the season, Dheeraj stressed the need for the team to focus on collective efforts in the remaining six league games. "Now it's time to forget about individual performances. We are all professionals, and we have to do well in the coming six games to get the maximum points out of it," he emphasized.
Looking ahead to the upcoming clash against East Bengal FC at Fatorda on Wednesday, Dheeraj acknowledged the challenges. He stated, "It's going to be difficult in every game coming ahead of us. We need to prepare ourselves the way we have been preparing since the start of the ISL. It's not a normal game, and we need to play as a team together."
When asked about his thoughts during the period when he wasn't the first choice goalkeeper, Dheeraj revealed his professional approach. He acknowledged the challenge of patiently waiting for an opportunity while respecting the team dynamics. "As a player, I wanted to play. And I know I am in a situation where things are performing so well. So I need to keep my patience and wait for the opportunity. I belong to the team even if I play or if I don't play. So I need to stick with the team until I get a chance or any opportunity ahead of me," he explained.
In response to the question of the difficulty of returning to top form after a period of not playing, Dheeraj maintained his composure. He acknowledged the challenges but emphasized the need to stay calm and focused. "Games are getting tougher, and we are in a situation where not many games are left. As a professional, it's not the first time for me to play in the ISL. So I need to keep myself calm and composed and focus and keep my concentration more on the games," he remarked.
FCGoa's head coach, Manolo Marquez, shared his admiration for Dheeraj Singh's dedication and professionalism. Expressing a special bond with the goalkeeper, Marquez revealed, "I love this guy; he is incredible and a good professional person." The coach acknowledged the challenges of being fair to all players and highlighted moments where he felt he may not have been entirely fair to Dheeraj. However, Marquez praised Arshdeep Singh's excellent performances, justifying his decision to keep him as the first choice.
Marquez shed light on the unique challenges of the goalkeeper position, stating, "The goalkeeper is something special. He’s not a right back, not a defender, not a midfielder wherein you can manage the situation." Despite the difficulty in changing goalkeepers, especially when the team is winning, Marquez reiterated his belief in Dheeraj's abilities. "He's an incredible guy and a very, very good goalkeeper," Marquez affirmed.
Reflecting on Dheeraj's omission from the Asian Cup, Marquez hinted at the tough decisions coaches must make. He mentioned the goalkeeper's exemplary dedication during practice, describing it as a great example for younger players and budding talents. "He is always pushing and training. There might be sometimes mistakes like everyone, but for me in the Goal, I have also told him the same – that he is one of the best Indian goalkeepers," Marquez asserted.
As Dheeraj Singh prepares to lead FCGoa in the crucial games ahead, his journey from patiently waiting for an opportunity to seizing the moment showcases the resilience and determination that define a true professional. With the unwavering support of Coach Marquez and the team, Dheeraj aims to make a significant impact in the remaining ISL matches, solidifying his status as one of India's top goalkeepers.
