FC Goa have continued their transfer activity in the summer transfer window as they have snapped up former Odisha FC custodian Arshdeep Singh. The young goalkeeper has signed on a two year deal with the Gaurs.
He will start off as a backup for Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem but given the performances in the past, Arshdeep is a player who can challenge and even overthrow Dheeraj if the former India U-17 is not aware. Arshdeep’s arrival will surely motivate Dheeraj even more to perform better in the upcoming season while head coach Carlos Pena will have some good selection headache.
The former Odisha FC custodian shared how he has dreamt of playing for FC Goa and finally his time has come. He lauded the footballing ideology and also cheekily shares how he has been on the receiving end of FC Goa’s marauding attack.
This is a dream come true for me. I’ve always wanted to play for FC Goa, so when I was presented with the opportunity this summer, I didn’t have to think twice before agreeing terms,” Singh said as he signed for FC Goa. “Their footballing style is something that I have admired for a long time. However, I have been on the wrong side of some really marvelous attacking performances by Goa.”
Playing for FC Goa requires a lot of factors especially for goalkeepers as they need to be good with their passing. Arshdeep is one of the very few custodians in India who are very good with the ball at their feet. It looks like Pena was impressed with that ability more than anything else. “Even though I am a ‘keeper, I love playing with my feet, am comfortable with it and I feel that would be something that I will bring to the Club. I can’t wait to develop my game further and take the next step forward,” he added.
FC Goa had a very disappointing last season as their head coach left them mid season and they struggled and finished ninth in the league standings with only four wins throughout the season. Therefore the management has trusted their former player Carlos Pena to do the job and take the tea to where they actually belong. Since joining the club Pena has already started his work as the Gaurs have brought in some talented players in the mix. Now with Arshdeep Singh joining in, their goalkeeping ranks will be more balanced.
Lastly FC Goa Director of football, Ravi Puskur has hailed this transfer as he shared how Arshdeep is a player who has shown growth and has that tremendous distribution ability that goes well with their style of play. “We’re pleased to bring Arshdeep on board. He’s a keeper who is well accustomed to the league now and beyond his obvious shot-stopping ability, has fantastic distribution as well, which is a must for us in our style of football. I’m sure he’ll adapt to our style and system in no time and will be an integral part of the First Team for years to come.”
Arshdeep Singh played 8 matches last season for Odisha FC and kept two cleansheets but had a decent 61% passing accuracy. He also had a decent save percent of 63% considering the season that his team had last time out. Overall he looks like a great prospect for FC Goa.
