FC Goa gear up to welcome NorthEast United FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa on Sunday in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18. The Gaurs have been the most prolific team with 27 goals to their name, though they find themselves at the sixth position in the points table. Their new signing Mark Sifneos is the first player in league history to play for two clubs in a single season, having plied his trade for Kerala Blasters FC before. In an exclusive interview with indiansuperleague.com, the Dutch frontman spoke about life in India, the league and more. Here are the excerpts.

How and when did you develop an interest in football?

I was very young. I think five years old and living in Greece. It began with watching television and then in the house with the ball. When I moved to the Netherlands at the age of six, I started playing football there immediately.

Any international player or team you follow?

There are a lot of players that I admire and I watch a lot of players to still keep on learning. As for teams, I follow Netherlands and Greece, both.

What are your thoughts on Hero ISL?

For me, it has been really good coming here. I have learnt a lot and hope to learn a lot more. I think it will only get bigger and better in the upcoming years.

Your favourite off-season hobby?

Being with my family and friends.

What have you loved the most about India?

The people are very nice. I like that they are polite and kind. I like the food, but I cannot eat it everyday. The weather is too hot sometimes, but other times, it is really nice.

What is your approach for the remaining part of the season?

For me, I just want to help the team as much as possible and score goals. I want the team to reach as high as possible.

How has your experience been in the state of Goa?

There is a lot to do in Goa. There are restaurants and markets, and you can do a lot of stuff. People are really living here.