‘Good to have injury-free squad’

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As many as three players from Pune FC were part of India’s recent AFC Challenge Cup campaign.

Back in full force after a 40-day break, Pune FC are all geared up for a good show in the I-league. Coach Derreck Pereira, who has at his disposal an injury-free squad, says the break helped players recuperate and they are now eyeing the I-League title.

Pereira, who underwent a conditioning course under former FC Barcelona and Manchester City fitness instructor Raymond Verheijen recently, talks about the club, their ambitions and his once-in-a-lifetime experience. Excerpts:

How did the 40-day break help?
It was of immense help as the injured players got time to recuperate. We were going through a bad phase just before the break and now are upbeat and confident. Most importantly, we have a full squad at our disposal. An injury-free squad boosts you up psychologically.

What was the highlight of the break?
The three-day conditioning course with former FC Barcelona and Manchester City fitness instructor Raymond Verheijen took the cake. He is such a big personality in football and the course changed my outlook towards the game. I strongly believe that if we can follow the regime and implement it in the years to come, Indian football can grow by leaps and bounds. Our technical director Rob Baan’s master plan has shown us the roadmap. It was a refreshing change.

Three players from your club were part of India’s recent AFC Challenge Cup campaign. Your view.
I am very happy for Arata (Izumi). Over the years I have seen him improve so much in front of my eyes. He has adjusted to Indian conditions well and has worked very hard to play for India. As far as Jeje (Lalpekhlua) is concerned, he needs to stay injury-free and I hope that he does. He is extremely talented, with immense potential. He needs to stay focused and eye that place regularly in the national team.
Gurjinder Kumar is one for the future. He has been a fine player, full of energy. I am proud he made his debut for the country. We also have quite a few talented players in our academy who are waiting for a call-up.

Where do Pune FC go from here?
We have played well this season. The balance of the side is very good and it is paying off. We lost our focus a bit after winning nine on the trot.
But even though we lost against Mumbai, our boys played really well. It is not always that result reflects the true story. Our aim is to finish on top.