Chennaiyin FC have found themselves on a decent run of form in Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 having won three out of their four matches so far. While the attack has done well, the defence has silently gone about its job as well, and Dhanpal Ganesh has played his role in the 2015 champions’ backline. He spoke to indiansuperleague.com ahead of the away game against Mumbai City FC. Here are the excerpts.

After winning your last game, you went to the top of the table. How does that feel?

I am very happy that we won the last game, and went to the top of the table. But while we are happy, we are also focusing on the next game.

How does it feel to be a regular starter for Chennaiyin FC this season?

I didn’t get a chance to play in the last two seasons, but this season I am getting my chance, so I would like to thank my coach (John Gregory) for that. This chance was very important for me, and I am trying to be a part of the starting XI in every match. We are now focusing on our next match against Mumbai City FC which is very important.

In the pre-match conference, your coach spoke about giving you a defensive role for better stability. What are your thoughts on it?

Before every match, the coach tells me a role to fulfil, and that is what I follow when I step onto the pitch. I listen to whatever he says. He puts me in a defensive role, and I like doing that because it helps the team.

How does it feel to play for Chennaiyin FC, and what advice would you give to the fringe players in the squad?

It was my dream to play for my hometown. I could not do so in the last two seasons, but this season I got the chance. I really feel good, because everyone from back home comes to watch me play, and that motivates me to give it my all on the field. To the players not in the line-up, all I am saying is to work extra hard, and to listen to the coach.

How is the experience playing alongside international players like Gregory Nelson?

First of all, I always tell the captain and Nelson that playing alongside them gives me a lot of confidence. If I miss a ball, then they are always there to cover for me, which takes the pressure off me, and also gives me the licence to express myself. The chemistry in the team is good, and that is a good thing.