ISL 2016: Zico says development of Indian football is the key to his stay in the country
FC Goa have been disappointing, to say the least, this season. The Gaurs visit FC Pune City tomorrow in a match between the bottom two sides of this year’s competition. Both the teams have struggled this season as both Pune and Goa have failed to convert draws into wins and losses into draws. Zico, in his pre-match press conference, spoke about the issues concerning his team and also on Indian football's development.
FC Goa have been on the wrong side of many refereeing decisions this season as many dubious calls have been made against Zico's side. Previously, Zico spoke in detail about the referees' quality in ISL but focused on his team's late start in the pre-season in today's press conference. A lot of reasons have hampered Goa's preparations this season and those are taking their toll on the team as the Gaurs are experiencing their worst ever start in ISL history.
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“Our team started the preseason later than the other teams and we have been plagued by a lot of injuries. Despite everything, we are giving our best in each game. When all the teams had made their signings, we were still in the trials phase as a number of issues resulted in a host of problems for the team,” Zico stated.
“Goa made the most of their situation but had to compromise on a lot of players before the start," he added.
He also reiterated that everyone was keen on changing the situation and he challenged his players to show character and prove their mettle for the loyal Goa fans. He also said that the whole team was fighting to stand a chance of reaching the semifinals which is still possible in the second phase of the league.
Zico elaborated on his team's scoring issues saying, "Players are suffering from anxiety in front of the goal as the results are taking its toll on players' minds. They are being reckless and are lacking patience in front of the keeper. I am not taking anything away from the goalkeepers but I am hopeful that we will start scoring soon."
Zico along with FC Pune City manager Antonio Habas have been in the ISL since the first season. " I have a commitment with FC Goa. My goal is to improve the youngsters in the team as the development of Indian football is the key to my stay in India,“ Zico stated.
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