Interview with Shem Marton Eugene: "Hope to win I-League with Chennai City FC"

Shem Marton in the No 23 jersey

You and S Rajesh of Gokulam Kerala are very close friends. How do you know each other? How often do you talk to each other?

We have been friends since childhood and he is more of a brother to me. We know each other because he is my neighbour (back home). We have practised together when we were kids and have grown up together.

Tell us about your family. Who supported you through football?

I have three elder sisters. I live with my sisters, parents and my grandfather. My father was a fisherman and I loved playing football on the beaches. They have been very supportive.

But I didn't know how to proceed with it. I owe all my success to my coach Cleofas Alex, who lives in my hometown. He guided me perfectly and I am very thankful to him. I am also very thankful to my cousin brother Crijin, who helped me through my difficult times.

How do you rate the CFA Senior Division and I-League?

I played in CFA Senior Division for one year. I-League is more professional, grand, state-based, whereas CFA Senior Division is limited only to a district. These are incomparable.

What are your personal goals?

My dream is to help our team win all the matches and the I-League. It is every footballer's dream to play for their national team. My dream is also to play for the Indian team at least once.

Who is your best buddy in the team?

My close friend in the team is Pravitto Raju. We belong to nearby towns and also studied in the same school for higher studies. He is also my roommate.

What would like to say about the fans in Coimbatore who come in huge numbers to the match?

They have the backbone for our success. They are everything to us and have always been with us always during our highs and lows.