NorthEast United FC defender Cedric Hengbart is one of the important players in the team. In NorthEast’s opening Hero Indian Super League Season 2 encounter against Kerala Blasters FC earlier this week, Hengbart impressed a great deal. The 35-year-old Frenchman stepped up after his captain, Miguel Garcia, had limped off. His stunning passing accuracy of 89% bought control to their defensive unit, allowing the Highlanders to build attacks from the back. Ahead of NorthEast’s second game against FC Pune City on Friday evening, the former Kerala Blasters FC player spoke to indiansuperleague.com. Here are the excerpts.Q. How does it feel to be sharing the dressing room with someone as amazing as coach Cesar Farias and Simao Sabrosa?A. It is great to have coaches and players like them in the ISL. Most importantly for us they are very humble so it is easy to work with them. They bring a lot of experience and new dimensions to the team."I learnt that India is a country that loves football and thus came back with renewed vigour."Cedric HengbartQ.After Season 1 you went to play in France and now are back for Season 2. What new learnings are you bringing from France for this stint?A. I learnt that India is a country that loves football and thus came back with renewed vigour. I knew that I would be playing with talented individuals so I expected that before I came back. I am more composed now as a defender and am looking forward to playing in front of the passionate crowds that the ISL draws.Q. Two tough away games for you. You would like to get three points under your belt. What's the plan for the game?A. The plan is simple. Try not to concede a goal. I back our forward line to score. If they do and the defense holds tight, we will achieve our objective.
