Chennaiyin FC and Inigo Calderon will be looking to bounce back with a win against Bengaluru FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday. Calderon has been a reliable presence at the back in Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 and has even got himself on the scoresheet. The Spaniard spoke to indiansuperleague.com ahead of their clash with Bengaluru and shared his thoughts on the game, young domestic players and more. Here are the excerpts from the interview.

What made you choose India and Chennaiyin FC in particular?

It’s because I wanted a change in my career. I don’t have too many years left to train with teams. I think coming here to India was something different. The coach, country and people are all different here and I wanted to find a combo such as that so India was perfect for me and Chennai because they contacted me.

Who among the CFC squad made it easier for you to settle in?

Mainly I think (Jaime) Gavilan, because he’s Spanish and he was already here in Kolkata. I was talking to him during the summer, asking him how is the life here. Half the time we’ve been together, sharing rooms as well so I guess he’s the one who has helped me out the most and we’re good friends already.

Any particular memory from the league? Your experience in the ISL?

It’s been just five games, but a lot of experiences at the same time. Even the first few games have made an impression, in both a good and bad way. Maybe because it was the first one, everything was new to me, the stadium, the fans, the referees. These were the things that impressed me the most and even the game with Goa at home.

Thoughts on the young Indian players in your squad?

All the Indian players have good experience and I also think there are young players coming in who are really strong, like Jerry (Lalrinzuala) and (Baoringdao) Bodo. It’s good to know that there is young talent coming in who want to run and build a sense of responsibility among us seniors. I am really happy with them.

Personal plans going up against Bengaluru FC?

I’ve been watching them and they are a really good side. For me, the table doesn’t lie at all and if they are on the top, it is because they are doing things right. Even attacking and defensive they are really good. In this league there isn’t much of a difference between the teams. Maybe they are stronger as they are on top but we will have our chance in one game to see who’s more clinical in the box and who makes the most of the chances.

Message for your Chennaiyin FC fans?

No, they already know we are going to give our best. Hopefully they can come to the game as it’s not that far away and we can give them a good victory tomorrow.