Ahead of Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2020-21, Jamshedpur FC have strengthened their squad with several new signings and recently secured the services of Brazilian attacker Alex Lima. Speaking to khelnow.com, Lima shared his excitement at the prospect of linking up with head coach Owen Coyle again, having played under him previously during his time in America.

“To be playing for Owen again is a great pleasure. Our time in Houston (Dynamo) was intense. He is a coach with a strong personality who knows what he wants. I am happy to play the role of number 10 in his tactical system where I will be distributing the ball, making the game but also fighting hard duels on both sides of the field,” the 31-year-old said.

Sharing his thoughts on the Hero ISL, Lima added, “It seems that everyone in football is now talking about Hero ISL. I’ve been watching a lot of games of the last season to prepare myself. I love the enthusiasm of the fans. Unfortunately, this season I’m going to miss them at the stadium.”

While giving Jamshedpur fans an insight into his football journey, the attacking midfielder stated, “I started very early with my father being my first coach. After my youth career years in Brazil, I jumped at the opportunity to play in Europe at the age of 19. During my time in Switzerland, I learned a lot about discipline and that football is not only about playing pretty dribbles but also about hard work.”

Lima continued, “When Chicago Fire showed interest in me, I was ready to play in the MLS. The league is still in its growing phase and I had a lot of fun playing for Chicago and later for Houston Dynamo, where I met Owen Coyle. In 2018, I left MLS for South Korea to experience a different part of the world and a different style of football.”

Jamshedpur FC have fallen short of qualifying for the playoffs in the last three Hero ISL seasons and besides the acquisition of Lima, the club hierarchy have brought in the likes of Jackichand Singh, Nerijus Valskis and Ricky Lallawmawma to try and buck that trend in the upcoming campaign. While discussing the team’s objectives for the new season, Lima made it clear that Jamshedpur are eyeing the playoffs, at the very least.

"Our first objective is reaching the playoffs, once we get there, we re-focus and anything can happen after that. I am extremely excited and happy to be able to help the club reach the playoffs (in the upcoming season) – and hopefully more. (It will be) a long awaited and deserved goal for the amazing fans,” the Brazilian said.