Brandon Fernandes interview - "My main strength is my finishing and my eye for goal"

Brandon Fernandes (no. 12) for India U-19

Firstly, congratulations on the trial and here’s hoping on behalf of the entire country that you do really, really well. What was your first reaction when you heard you were attracting the interest of top clubs?

At first I really couldn’t believe this! A premiership trial is not something that happens to Indian players. I’m so excited and I really hope I can do my country proud.

Tell us about your background. How naturally did football come to you? Who were the people who got you to play football? Any players you looked up to from when you were young?

I started playing soccer on the streets with my friends when I was 4 years old. Most of my family members are into sports, especially soccer. I was mainly encouraged by my dad. The player I looked up to as a youngster, was Bruno Coutino from Goa. Nowadays, I don’t just look up to one player, rather I look up to many great players who play in midfield like I do. I learn different things from watching different players, but if I was being pushed to name one, I would say Cristiano Ronaldo.

You’ve represented India at U13, U16, U17 and U19 levels. How important is it for you to represent the country? How do you feel every time you pull on an Indian jersey?

I feel immensely proud. It is a great honour to play for my country.

You are a mid-fielder and unfortunately, not many know more about you. Tell us where you like to play the most and which player you’d want to play like? What are your main strengths?

I am an attacking midfielder, but can play anywhere in the midfield. I think my main strength is my finishing and my eye for goal. In that respect, the player I most want to be like in the future, is Lionel Messi.

You are being touted by many as the player to take Indian football to the next level. Now, that is a heavy burden at such a young age. How do you plan to cope with that pressure and hype?

I would love to see Indian football go to another level. For that to happen, we need to produce more quality players. I honestly believe we have the talent to do that, and in the meantime, I will focus on working hard to take my own game to the next level.

Finally, if it was down to you to choose any club in the world to play for, where would you like to play?

Right now, I am concentrating on winning a contract at a good club. My ultimate dream would be to play for Manchester United.

Once again, all the best for your trial. I sincerely hope that you fulfil your potential and take Indian football to greater heights.