New Delhi: This might be their first shot at I-League, but Pune FC will definitely be a club to watch out for. Why not? With a bunch of young talented players and a coach like Derrick Pereira, the club has already set high expectations.
"We are really eager to do well. The team has got talent and our expectations are pretty high. But it's a big challenge and it's going to be a tough league. Our aim is to play top quality football in the first division," said Derrick, the newly appointed Pune FC coach.
It's still a few days for the I-League to commence and Derrick is making sure that his team aren't seen as pushovers. Despite the defeat against Air India, Derrick feels his team is in a good shape, "We didn't have a good start against Air India in the IFA shield, but our 2-0 win against the Senegalese side is a big boost. Our preparation is going on well and we are getting ready."
One of the major boosts for the Pune side is the addition of the national team's star goalkeeper Subrata Paul.
"I am proud to have him in the team. He is India's number one goalkeeper and the most confident guy. Keeper of his talent enhances the team's chances. His presence will mean a lot," said the former Mahindra United coach.
Derrick believes that Indian football is on the rise, thanks to the performances of the national team and the time is ripe for the Federation to capitalize on the developments.
"I agree with Bob Houghton. The team has achieved well. Indian football is picking up popularity wise and the federation needs to capitalize on it. We still lack good infrastructure. Coach Education, having training fields and each clubs having their stadium are few of the things that are to be looked into."
Infrastructure is one of the factors that prompted Derrick to join Pune FC.
"This club has a future. I am impressed by the facilities provided by the club management."
However he feels there isn't much of a difference in coaching Pune FC and Mahindra.
"I have gained a lot of knowledge from Mahindra but however, there isn't much of a difference in coaching any Indian sides. Indian standards are pretty much the same," he added.
Derrick has high ambitions from his current club and the team is all set for their I league's debut.
"I always plan. Our goal is an attainable one. We are focusing on the youth at the moment and we want to produce some fine players for the national team," said the AFC pro licenced coach.
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