Seeing two experienced Italian campaigners in Bruno Cirillo and Daniele Magliochetti marshalling the defence in the training sessions would convince most observers of how difficult it is going to be to breach the FC Pune City citadel. If there were still any doubts about its solidity, one look at the 6 ft 2in figure between the sticks would be enough to dispel them. Emanuele Belardi stands there, arms spread, as the last man of coach Franco Colomba’s defence. Here are some excerpts from an exclusive interview:Who would be a dream player to play with in the same team?I think the team is complete right now and we are firing on all aspects. But, if you push me and this question is hypothetical… I would say Del Piero!Do you have superstitions? Or is there one thing you always do before a match?I do not have superstitions. But yes, before every match, I make the sign of the cross and remember my dad."Before every match, I make the sign of the cross and remember my dad."Bruno CirilloWhat is your favourite football moment of all time?One of my best moments was when I stopped a Roberto Baggio penalty! But the most favourite was in 1998, when I was in Reggina under Franco Colomba and I saved an Andriy Shevchenko penalty to earn a draw for my side.One player from a different club that you are raring to play against.Because I have played with him for so many years and I think I can stop him, I will say Alessandro Del Piero.One player from your team that you are glad is not in the opposition?I don’t have a name in particular, but the Indian guys have impressed me a lot. I feel confident playing with the current crop.Three things you always carry with you before a match.My phone- because I am so far from my family and my hands. That’s it.How has it been training with the new guys?It has been great so far, it’s a new bunch of guys who are raring to prove themselves. We are learning a lot from each other and it’s a nice mix of experience and youth.
