PANAJI
A few days after signing new contracts with FC Goa, defender Seriton Fernandes and midfielder Princeton Rebello spoke of their desire to help the club return to winning ways in the Indian Super League (ISL).
“We’ve been a regular presence in the top-four of the ISL league stages over the past few seasons. Our 2021-22 campaign was an exception. It hurts to remember that we finished in ninth place. That said, lessons have been learned and we know that we have what it takes to restore our status as one of the best teams in the league,” Rebello said.
Fernandes said that the club hopes to win the ISL. “That’s what I expect, nothing less. We have to qualify for the playoffs and compete for the trophy.”
Both players revealed that extending their contracts was an easy decision. “Coach Carlos (Pena) and I were teammates previously, a couple of seasons ago. Back then he had helped me a lot, especially in improving my technique. I was excited to learn that he was coming back and I look forward to learning more from him,” said Fernandes on how Pena played a role in his contract extension.
“FC Goa is my home and my dream is to win the ISL with the club, for their fans and for the people of Goa. Hence I did not have to think twice before signing a new deal,” Rebello quipped. The 23-year-old further added that he wants to improve the defensive aspects of his game, so that he can be in contention for more playing time. “I want to be more physical and compete for every ball. Defensively I want to improve myself. I hope to play every game I can for the club this season.”
Fernandes, meanwhile, explained that his focus is on working harder than ever in a bid to take the club back to its best days. “I have to, and will work harder than ever. In terms of individual performance, I would like to score goals and make more assists. The idea is to try and be better in all ways possible, so that I can do whatever it takes to help my team win trophies again,” he said.
