He has been an indispensable part of his I-League side Bengaluru FC for the past two years. Holding his ground and helping the back line stay strong against the best of attacks in the country, while using his pace and skill to deliver darting crosses into the opposition box, Rino Anto has been a delight to watch.
Bought for Rs 90 lakh by Atletico de Kolkata, the 27-year-old will undoubtedly be the player to watch out for when the Indian Super League kicks-off in a week’s time. The Kerala footballer spoke to Deccan Herald ahead of the gruelling season. Excerpts:
On the importance of pre-season preparation.
It (the pre-season) was very helpful. We (players) got to know each other. I believe, it’s sessions like these that help a team to bond well, as it helps you to know one another; their strengths and weakness and their style of play.
On the prospects of playing alongside Helder Postiga.
I consider myself lucky that I get to play alongside (Hélder) Postiga. It’s been a great experience so far. He has played a few World Cups and that shows in his game. There’s a lot to learn from guys like him like the various aspects of the game, both on and off the field.
On pressure because of huge price tag.
Yes, there is pressure. And I know that. But that hardly matters. As professionals, there is always a pressure to perform, and we have to deal with it. They have spent Rs 90 lakh on me and have certain expectations from me. They have seen me play in the past and that’s one reason why I was bought. Now, it’s my time to deliver. I can assure that I will give my best to help my team succeed.
On his role in the side.
I have played as an attacking wing-back for both Bengaluru FC and the National side. Both Ashley (Westwood) and Stephen (Constantine) gave me the freedom to charge ahead and help the side. I hope that my role remains more or less the same. But in today’s game you can’t just be there up front attacking or stay back defending. We have to pay equal emphasis to both aspects of the game.
What do you bring to the Kolkata set-up.
I think I can be a useful player in the attacking third. I hope that I can put my experience and pace to good use to create a number of goal-scoring chances for the attackers.
On pressure of being the defending champions.
No, not at all (there is no pressure). The team is upbeat about its chances. We will be taking one game at a time and not think too far ahead. For now the focus is on the Chennai game (inaugural tie on October 3).
On Kolkata’s chances of defending the title.
Football is a very unpredictable game. So anything can happen. I believe, the team which performs well on the day, will clinch the title. You can be a good side on paper, but if it’s not your day, you won’t make it. So, all we can do is pray and hope that we play to our potential on the match day.
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