PANJIM: PANJIM: FC Goa has been in sublime form in the ongoing ISL season wherein they have not only been scoring goals, but also have been entertaining the fans with their attacking and unique style of play. The Gaurs’ midfielder Brandon Fernandes cherishes playing for the home teams and revealed his desire and wanting to play for FC Goa.
“I always wanted to be in Goa and play for the home team. It’s always nice to play in Goa in front of the home fans. Every Goan player desires to play in Goa,” said the attacking midfielder Brandon Fernandes.
Considering his past statistics, Brandon Fernandes has been at his best for FC Goa in the current season. A regular in Sergio Lobera’s plan, the Benaulim lad has managed four assists for his teammates and is joint leader with fellow Gaur Manuel Lanzarote on the assist table. Brandon first played in the ISL for Mumbai City in 2015, but his injury kept him out of action for major part of the season. The Goan lad then went on to play for Mohun Bagan in 2016 I-League season, but again, another injury forced him out of the season. The injuries were causing a major setback for the young talent’s growth, who was once identified to be India’s great.
“Since last season I have been playing consistently. I played for Churchill Brothers FC last season in the I-League and came back stronger after my injury and then I wanted to play in every game.”
Brandon was among the eight Goan players picked up by FC Goa in the draft but the lad lived up to his expectations in the league thus far, week after week.
His recent performance also earned him a contract extension at FC Goa. Perhaps! A good gesture from the club towards their young hero, which will keep him tied at the club till 2020.
“I knew it was always going to be difficult to break into the team. When I spoke to the coaches, they told me that I was an important player for them and I had to work hard in the training and that’s what I did, I worked hard in the training and coach gave me the chance in the team and I kept performing,” Brandon explained.
“I want to thank FC Goa for believing in me and picking me up from the draft and making me their player. I’m glad they gave me the opportunity to play here. And I will continue to give my best,” added the 23-year-old.
Playing against one of the most experienced players, Brandon said, “I’m lucky playing alongside Lanza and Coro. They are very experienced players and have played in Spanish top division. Playing with them is helping me a lot. They advise and guide me,” Brandon said.
Brandon revealed his aim is to help and contribute in the team’s efforts and said, “I just have to help my team at the moment. And I’m doing it by creating goals, but if I get an opportunity to score, I will definitely score.”
Ever since the arrival of the Spanish gaffer Sergio Lobera, the Goan side have been a force to reckon with. Brandon described Sergio’s style as unique which helps them to play and give their best.
“We follow coach’s instruction when we take the field. He has his own philosophy and ideas and we just follow that,” said Brandon praising the Spaniard’s ways of working at the Club.
“At the moment what is more important is that, what I do for FC Goa,” he signed off.
