I have had a long and fruitful time playing the game I love. I have lived my life to the fullest as football has brought me some of the highest and lowest moments in my life. It has been a great teacher. 

Away from the game, I like to do a number of things and today, I would like to share some of the things that I like with you.

#1 Books

I love reading and at every opportunity I get, I read. I always carry my Kindle with me for the very same reason. Any time I get a chance to read up I do. It helps me broaden my mindset more than anything. 

A lot of the inspirations that have influenced me over the years have come away from the footballing pitch and reading books has not only helped me gain more knowledge but has also helped me put a lot of things in my life into perspective. 

A book I love is the Lord of the Rings series by JR Tolkien. I read the whole thing one summer, long before the films were made. Another writer I really appreciate is Ken Follet.

#2 The sunsets of Goa

One of the things that will forever remain etched in my mind is the sunsets in Goa. The place, thankfully still has a number of virgin beaches and the view at that point of the day is breathtaking. 

On days we were given an off, I loved to travel to the beaches along with my family – enjoying our time together while taking in the sunsets on the beaches. My most favourite place in Goa will always be Ashwem beach. 

It’s tranquil, pleasant and great for a family day out. 

#3 The Spanish guitar

I appreciate art and music. People who go on become professional performance artists – those are brave people. It takes a lot of toil and hours behind the scenes to become what they are today. 

I love playing the guitar. I am not great at it and after retirement, I hope to become even better in the days to come. I will let you guys know when I become good enough to play a song. 

#4 Injuries

Not everyone has been as lucky as me in their football career. I got to play at the highest level in La Liga, represented my country at a World Cup and had one of the best experiences possible during my time at FC Goa. And finally, I chose to close the book on my playing career in the way I wanted to.

Some of my friends didn’t have that luxury. Injuries play a huge role in the sport and a number of them have succumbed to them.

Over 17 years of my professional life on the football pitch I was extremely lucky in terms of injuries and only had 2 small ones over my entire career. 

#5 I love dogs

I am an animal lover and especially dogs. I have had dogs as pets of my own from time to time in my life and each one of them has been really special to me. 

The bond we form with them makes a mark on us forever. They become friends and their relationship more often than not helps you appreciate the little things in life.