Goemkarponn desk
PANAJI: One of FC Goa’s longest-serving footballers, Brandon Fernandes, has been named captain of the side for the upcoming season of the Indian Super League (ISL). The 27-year-old midfielder will head a four-member captaincy group that comprises Seriton Fernandes, Glan Martins, and Marc Valiente. Brandon, who has been representing the Gaurs since 2017, has so far made 85 appearances (69 in ISL) for them across all competitions in the past five seasons. The Margao lad also leads the league in assists accounted for by an Indian with 19 in addition to his five strikes.
“It’s an honour to lead my home Club in the Hero ISL. Additionally, it’s also a privilege that I have the trust of my teammates. I enjoyed the responsibilities I had as part of the captaincy group last season. And now, I’m looking forward to the challenges as we head into the new season,” Brandon said on his appointment as captain. Brandon helped FC Goa to their first silverware in the Super Cup in 2019 and followed that up with significant contributions en route to helping FC Goa to the Hero ISL League Winners’ Shield in 2019-20 and the Durand Cup in 2021. He was also an integral part of the side that became the first-ever team to represent India in the AFC Champions League last year, finishing the campaign with two assists. FC Goa will look to lean upon the leadership qualities of Marc Valiente as well, with the Spaniard having led the defence of top Spanish sides like Sevilla and Real Valladolid previously. The 35-year-old was once also the captain of the Barcelona B side that featured the likes of Carlos Pena.
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