André Clarindo dos Santos, commonly known as André Santos, has been on fire, of late. The Brazilian playmaker has been at the heart of FC Goa’s meteoric rise from the bottom of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) table to second place and within clinching distance of a semi-final berth. The former Arsenal star has been used to brilliant effect by Goa’s seasoned head coach, Zico. The legendary footballer has used his countryman as an attacking midfielder and the otherwise regular left-back has repaid his coach’s faith with devastating effect.Notching up three goals and three assists in the ISL so far, Santos’s magnificent performance against Kerala Blasters FC has led the fans to declare him as the “Player of the Week” for the week ending 30 November 2014. His talent on the ball and natural playmaking ability was there for everyone to see as Santos ran the show and crowned it off with a goal that broke Kerala’s back. Driving forward from midfield, the Brazilian adjusted his feet and with a deft flick, transferred the ball to his right. He only needed another touch to calmly roll the ball into the net beyond David James and then break into a jig to celebrate a truly classy goal.The win was important for Goa as it propelled them into the top four and capped a wonderful comeback after a slow start to tournament. It is no wonder that the laid-back, former Confederations Cup winner has grabbed maximum votes to top our “Player of the Week” charts.Zico will be looking for more from Santos, who can unhinge opponents with his pace, dead ball skills, natural flair and wonderful technique, to propel them into the last four and thereafter hopefully all the way.
