NorthEast United have endured their best-ever campaign in the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) as they currently sit in third position in the league table. Rowllin Borges has been a pivotal figure in their change in fortunes, displaying some match-winning performances throughout the season. Next up, Borges will return to his homeland Goa to face Sergio Lobera’s FC Goa. 

The talented midfielder spoke to indiansuperleague.com prior to the clash on the prospect of playing with some of his old friends as well as some of his childhood idols. Here are the excerpts: 

Tell us a bit about your footballing journey. 

I used to go to watch football matches with my father in the Fatorda stadium and then I played my first match in school. So, from that time, I have been playing. 

On playing with other Goan players. 

Yeah, I played with Brandon and Seriton also. I played with Brandon (Fernandes) in under-14 and under-16 and with Seriton (Fernandes), we have played together at Sporting. 

How does it feel to be a constant starter for NorthEast United FC? 

For me, it’s good. For every season, my main aim and main target is to play consistently and to be in the team every match. I train to play every match, every second of the match, so that is why I train hard. 

What is the secret to NorthEast United FC’s turnaround this season? 

I think the secret will be that we have worked as one group; coaches, management and players. I think credit goes to all who have turned this season. It’s a good season, we work as a team and I think, the result you can see on the field. 

Is there any player that you look up to? 

I still watch Zinedine Zidane’s videos and when I was young, I used to watch Ronaldinho, Zinedine Zidane and I used to watch Sunil (Chhetri) Bhai, Climax (Lawrence) Bhai. I used to watch them play when I was young. 

How does it feel to play in your hometown again? 

It’s nice. My family will be there to support me. My family, my friends and it’s always nice to play in front of your home crowd.