MARGAO
Dempo SC’s dynamic striker Marcus Joseph continues to underline his importance as one of the most influential attacking players in Indian football. Known for his creativity, composure, and versatility in the final third, the Trinidad & Tobago international is currently enjoying the peak phase of his career.
Under the guidance of head coach Samir Naik, Joseph has evolved into a complete modern forward. His ability to lead the line is complemented by his work rate—winning duels, pressing defenders, and using his pace to trouble opposition backlines. Beyond scoring, he plays a crucial role in linking up play, showcasing excellent passing ability and ball control that elevates Dempo’s overall attacking structure.
This season, Joseph has once again proven his value not just as a finisher but also as a creator. He has already created 12 chances, placing him among the top five players in the league in that category. In front of goal, he remains clinical, maintaining an impressive conversion rate of 0.32 goals per shot—effectively scoring with nearly every third attempt.
Speaking about his personal targets, Joseph expressed confidence in his ability to deliver. “Yes, for sure, I believe I can reach 20 goals this season. There’s still a long way to go, and I want to score as many as I can to help the team,” he said, reaffirming his ambition to guide his side to success.
Joseph’s journey in Indian football has been remarkable. He first made his mark with Gokulam Kerala FC during the 2018–19 I-League season, where he scored seven goals in just nine matches. He followed that with a sensational Durand Cup campaign, netting 11 goals in five matches, including a brace in the final against Mohun Bagan, earning both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball. He remains Gokulam Kerala’s all-time top scorer with 26 goals across competitions.
A move to Mohammedan SC in 2021 further elevated his career. Under coach Andrey Chernyshov, Joseph played a pivotal role in ending the club’s 40-year wait for the Calcutta Football League title. He also won the I-League Golden Boot in the 2021–22 season with 15 goals and remains the all-time top scorer in the Durand Cup with 17 goals.
Reflecting on his relationship with Chernyshov, Joseph said, “We share a great connection. He’s helped me improve, especially with patience in front of goal. I’m always learning and trying to grow my game.”
In the current 2024–25 I-League season with Dempo SC, Joseph has been in outstanding form, scoring seven goals in just five matches. However, the campaign did not start smoothly for the team. Early setbacks forced both players and coaching staff into honest introspection.
“Football can be unpredictable. You don’t go into matches expecting to lose, but sometimes things don’t go your way,” Joseph admitted. “What matters is how you respond. We asked tough questions, worked harder, and slowly found our rhythm again.”
He credited coach Samir Naik for keeping the squad united during difficult phases. “The coach never lost faith in us. His belief pushed us forward, and gradually our performances improved. Picking up seven points from the last three matches shows the character of this team,” he added.
Looking ahead, Joseph remains focused on contributing in every possible way. “My aim is to help the team, whether through goals or by guiding younger players. Experience matters, and I try to bring that into the squad,” he explained.
While personal milestones are important, Joseph insists the team’s objectives come first. “I want to finish strong, maybe become the top scorer again, but most importantly, we must avoid relegation. That is the priority.”
In his second season with Dempo, Joseph believes there is still more to come. “Last season I joined midway and still made an impact. Now, with more time, the chemistry is improving, and I can contribute even more.”
He signed off with a message to the fans: “Keep believing in us. We are improving, we are fighting, and everything will fall into place.”
