Goa, 9 February, 2022: When FC Goa faced Chennaiyin FC earlier this season, the Gaurs returned home happy with a win. In fact, this was also the last time that Derrick Pereira and Co. claimed all three points from a match this season in the ISL.

Come Wednesday, the two teams will face each other once again, and goalkeeper Naveen Kumar are among those who are looking to create an impact for the Men in Orange.

Naveen has made three appearances so far in ISL 2021-22, one of which was against Chennaiyin. In that game, he also kept a clean sheet and earned praise for his performance.

“I am comfortable with the style at FC Goa, where we play from behind,” the 33-year-old said. “We all are professional footballers, and have to adjust to different circumstances. At Goa, I am happy right now.”

Teamwork over competition

The Punjab-based shot-stopper has been with the Gaurs for the most part since 2017, barring a few months when he represented Kerala Blasters. His time with the club has always been marked by stiff competition from his teammates such as Laxmikant Kattimani and Mohammad Nawaz who have since moved elsewhere and Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem.

Naveen, however, has always worked with his teammates without taking the competition into consideration.

“For instance, Dheeraj and I are good friends both on and off the pitch. He is like a brother to me. We give each other confidence during training so that we both give our 100%,” he explained his camaraderie with the 21-year-old.

Naveen Kumar has been a part of FC Goa for over four seasons now, but he is not done yet.

“I want to continue for longer with FC Goa. My experience here has been great and I like the way the team plays. The staff and players are totally professional,” he signed off.

The goalkeeper will now look to keep the Gaurs’ playoff hopes alive with another clean sheet, provided he gets a chance on Wednesday evening against Chennaiyin FC.