Herald: You are considered Goa’s future star! You have talent beyond dreams as you made your mark at national and international platform. How was your journey?
Princeton: It was not an easy journey for me. I’ve gone through a lot of ups and downs. I have reached thus far, but today I feel very happy and more confident after wearing the Indian team jersey, because it’s always a proud moment to wear the Indian colours. But this is just the beginning. I want to take it from here. Would want to score distinctive goals and play for the senior team now.
Herald: Not many Goans made it to the National platform in recent times. But you not just made the cut but have made an impact too, some would say its luck but what you have to say about it?
Princeton: I would say it’s the blessing and reward for my hard work. While many would think of making the cut, I worked hard to get in the playing eleven. I’ve tried my level best to get here. The competition wasn’t easy as there were three-four players in every position. Some would say luck, but it’s my dedication and hardwork and moreover, the sacrifice that led me here.
Herald: Many players fail to master the art of scoring goals, but you make it look so easy despite being a midfielder. How did u develop the ability?
Princeton: I have been playing as a midfielder from my childhood and rushing upfront was what I enjoyed the most. I’ve always tried to help the team to win at the same time I always had the hunger to score and create goals. In football, the goal scorers and the playmakers are remembered the most! And luckily I’m able to do both and I hope to continue the same.
Herald: Two goals in U-18 SAFF Championship and both were brilliant strikes. But which one was special to you?
Princeton: I would like to thank the almighty God for all this. Without him nothing would have been possible. Scoring itself was special for me. However, both were special because I scored them for my country. But the 35-yard free-kick is the one that I won’t ever forget. It was one of the best goals till date.
Herald: What do you do to make sure you retain that hunger to carry on winning and scoring goals?
Princeton: One needs to have fun on the pitch and enjoy the time out there. To be honest I give my 100 per cent during my every training session and it automatically develops mu skills, the result of which is seen during the match. Sometimes I spend extra time on the pitch to get the best out of me, if I’m not content with my training for that particular session. This has helped me a lot.
Herald: You had an opportunity to play for English side Watford, but you turned down a dream opportunity in order to pursue your goal. Was it the right decision?
Princeton: I will never regret the decision for donning the National colours. The day I began playing football, my dad wanted to see me wearing the Indian team jersey. He wanted me to give first preference to my country and then to the other clubs. That was the perfect opportunity to fulfil his as well as my dreams.
Herald: Don’t you think you would have gained much more experience and exposure at Watford?
Princeton: Yes, definitely I would have gained more experience and it would have developed me into a finer player. But to gain something one needs to sacrifice something. I didn’t want to leave the dream behind of playing for the country. For me my country comes first and playing for India was the defying moment of my career. I have been developing here as well.
Herald: You have been roped in by FC Goa following your impressive stint at domestic football. Does the pressure get to you?
Princeton: Yeah there is a lot of pressure on me. I’ve been always thinking about Indian Super League from a long time. Now that I’m with the Goan franchise, I hope and pray the time comes sooner than expected. A footballer’s career is short, so I have to do the best when I’m at my best! My target is Indian Super League now.
Herald: What do you feel about the current state of football in Goa?
Princeton: I don’t know exactly what to say about this. But football standards are dropping in the State. I really can’t say anything regarding this as there are many factors as even the age-old clubs have withdrawn from the National league.
Herald: Which player would you like to play alongside?
Princeton: Luka Modric. As a Real Madrid fan, he is a big player for me. I like his playing style albeit there is Ronaldo and Bale in the same team. Luka got unique quality of creating and scoring goals whenever needed. He is a complete player.
Herald: Anything else?
Princeton: Firstly I would like to thank the almighty God for everything he gave me in my life till this journey. I would like to thank all my coaches, teammates and the staff; all this wouldn’t have been possible without them and not forgetting my parents for their constant support.
