PANJIM: FC Goa’s development squad features some of the State’s brightest talents, but the lad who is gaining most attention is their dynamic right back Leander D’Cunha, who could be seen more higher in our list of talented defenders.
The Cuncolim-based lad made himself known to Goa during the 2017 Santosh Trophy wherein he was part of the team which emerged runners-up, and then he made a big name for himself in the State for last couple of years with his impressive performances in the Goa Professional League and Second Division I-League for FC Goa.
In this season, in the Goa Pro League, in his 17 matches, Leander played every minute of 17 matches and helped his side manage seven clean sheets, scoring two and assisting one to show the traits of a complete full back. Tough in defending! The 22-year-old lad makes it difficult for the strikers to get past him.
“This season is going well by God’s grace. The game time I am getting this season has helped me to form a complete player building my confidence,” explained Leander D’Cunha.
“Being the captain of the team, I had additional responsibility of performing consistently as I was aware everyone were looking upon me. But I took each game at a time and yeah, I think I did quite well,” further added Leander, who rightfully lead his side with an example.
Leander is a versatile player who can play as a centre back too. He also thanked his mentors Technical Director Derrick Pereira and former development team head coach Clifford Miranda for helping him in his growth.
Set pieces, corners and passing are definitely Leander’s forte, but the right back is brilliant at attacking play too! His presence of mind in moving forward and strong overlapping runs set him apart from the rest, and at this young age there are shades of some great footballers giving bright future for the youngster. If he continues to give his best, he surely to make it to the senior team sooner.
Leander began his playing career with Sesa FA, and then went on to play for Churchill Brothers, where he excelled during his time and earned a place for himself in the development team of FC Goa. His passing in the attacking third is hailed by many, as much he proved to be effective at back. His growth has to be lauded over the years.
When asked whether he is ready to step up the challenge next year, Leander stressed, “I have been here (FC Goa) for last three years and during my time here at the club, I’ve improved a lot on and off the field. I’ve worked hard in the last three years and I think I am ready for the new challenge.”
Leander’s game was always liked and enjoyed by the FC Goa’s coaches Derrick Pereira and Clifford Miranda, and with the duo likely to continue to head the first team in the Indian Super League side for the next season, there are chances the lad might get a call to train with the senior team.
“My ultimate goal is to play for FC Goa senior team and represent the National team,” concluded Leander.
“Leander is an excellent player. His humble nature and leadership qualities are the second topic we discuss after his infield performances. There are huge chances that this year the youngster might train with the senior team and this could be a boost for the lad,” stated an FC Goa official.
With Amey Ranawade unlikely to continue with the senior team, this might surely give a chance to Leander to be where he deserves to next season.
