Allan D’Cruz
allan@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: ‘Nothing is difficult in football,’ said Gaurs’ new signing Zaid Krouch accepting the new life and challenge at FC Goa as he now prepares life under coach Sergio Lobera in the Indian Super League campaign which begins from Friday.
“If you dedicate yourself to the sport and work hard nothing can stop you from achieving your goals. You can earn the place in any team and be part of any coaches’ plan if you work hard,” said Zaid, who has already made a mark for the Gaurs netting two goals in their 8-1 win against Vasco Sports Club on his debut in a friendly match, following his move from Morocco’s Moghreb Tétouan.
“Football is same everywhere. I have managed to earn faith from coach Lobera and will not let that down,” he added.
Zaid, an attacking midfielder has scored 34 goals in 90 games for Moghreb Tetouan, will have to fight for his place to make it into the starting eleven considering the amount of talent available to Lobera in the attacking front.
“I would want to start the game on Monday against Jamshedpur FC. Any players would want to start the game but I respect coach’s decision and would do justice to my role whether I start the game or come off the bench,” added Zaid.
Ziad honestly stated that he didn’t know much about ISL and FC Goa and said, “Before joining this club, I didn’t hear much about this league and the club as I saw few highlights and goals from Hugo just before my move could materialise.”
Before Ziad could ink the deal with the Gaurs, he had offers from seven other clubs including rivals and former ISL Champions ATK, but the lad chose to work with his former boss – Lobera, as he believed his ideas and philosophies make him the ideal coach to work under.
“Coach Lobera’s style of football in quiet interesting. His Tiki Taka style of football makes the game catch more pace and makes it difficult for the opponents. His style is similar to that of Barcelona. This makes him a unique coach in the ISL,” said the Moroccan youngster who played for their national side in the 2014 African Nations Championship.
“At the moment I am feeling very happy and excited and all the players have been very supportive and I would like to thank all the players for the same,” said the lad after his team’s training session at Athletic Stadium, Bambolim on Thursday.
Despite just weeks after his joining, Goa star player Mandar Rao Dessai managed to impress the Moroccan.
“Mandar has impressed me a lot. On the field he is quick and is very technical player. He attacks as well as defends well,” said Zaid.
FC Goa’s defence had been the most concerned area as they have conceded joint second highest most number of goals (10) in the league. However, Sergio continued to believe in his attacking philosophy as he roped in the attacking midfielder who played under the Spanish gaffer in Morocco. The Spaniard roped in another attacking player which is also needed as no other player could take Coro’s place and deliver for Sergio in the time of crisis. It could be recollected FC Goa were handed their biggest defeat in this edition by Jamshedpur FC after Coro missed the clash following his suspension for his red card in the previous game. The absence not only affected the team morale but no other players could deliver Sergio the much needed goals.
