Kerala Blasters youngster Vibin Mohanan had a great opportunity to travel to Greece for a training stint with Greek top-tier outfit OFI Crete. The young midfielder believes that he has improved as a player in the month-long training camp. He gained experience in his training stint and will be eager to showcase them on the field for the Blasters.
“What I think has improved is my technique. They are very strong physically, and technically too, and they are great too. But I felt that my technique has improved because the speed of the game is faster there (in Greece) than here so I feel I have improved my decision-making and control,” Mohanan stated in an interview with Kerala Blasters FC.
The midfielder made his debut in the ISL last season under Ivan Vukomanovic. He featured in four matches for the club and even Vukomanovic felt that he is a player with huge potential. However, Mohanan had his set of challenges during his initial days in Greece.
“Intensity, speed, technique.. is more advanced there than here, that is what I felt. During my first week there, I had difficulties adjusting to their methods, but then I adapted to them over time. So even though the first week was tough, over time everything fell into place,” he added.
It was a memorable experience for Mohanan who got accustomed to the playing style and the culture in Greece. He also featured in their pre-season match against Eredivisie outfit SC Heerenveen. Although he came on as a substitute late in the game he enjoyed the experience.
“It was a great experience because not everyone gets the opportunity to play against such a big club. I’m really happy I got this chance as someone who travelled to Greece from India and got a chance to play against a top team in the Dutch First Division, it was really a memorable day for me. Even though I played for a few minutes, I’m glad I got the opportunity to play. I think I played around 10-12 minutes and I believe that I played well,” he recalled.
Mohanan has understood the gulf in class between India and Greece. He understands the areas that need improvement and will share the knowledge that he has gained with other players.
“All in all it was a great experience because it was a great opportunity for me. I could understand the difference between the intensity of the game played in India and Greece. I also understood what we lack and what we need to improve on. I hope I can help and guide other players with the knowledge I have gained,” he concluded.
Kerala Blasters started their Durand Cup campaign with a 4-3 defeat against rivals Gokulam Kerala in the Kerala Derby. After this defeat, the Blasters will face Bengaluru FC on August 18.
