PORVORIM: FC Goa started preparations for the upcoming season of the Indian Super League under the watchful eyes of new head coach Carlos Pena with the club inviting the fans to take in the action after a 4-month hiatus.
Everyone barring four first-team players away on Durand Cup duties joined the contingent which began practice at the Salvador do Mundo Panchayat Football Ground on Friday.
Speaking of the focus on the first few days, Carlos Pena said, “The idea for these early days is very clear: prepare the players physically for the competition, build and work on our ideas of how we want to play football and most importantly, mould a strong group.
“We have some new additions into the squad and it’s essential to create connections between them and the old players and put everyone in the same path.”
The excitement at the Salvador do Mundo Panchayat Ground was palpatable. Speaking on the same, Pena, added, “As it always happens in preseason, people come excited and look forward to start training on the pitch. I see players who are highly committed and have good energy. Our mission will be to keep and maintain this for the whole season.”
A midfield mainstay, Glan Martins sounded ecstatic on his return to the ground with his fellow Gaurs. “I am just thrilled to be back playing football.After a long season in the bubble, the break was a welcome one and now I am looking forward to getting back into the thick of the action. I’m happy and now it’s time to train hard,” he said.
