FC Goa’s latest loan signing James Donachie can only see positives when it comes to his move to the Gaurs from A-League side Newcastle Jets. The 27-year-old centre-back was part of a virtual press conference on Monday and spoke about the reasons that attracted him to Goa ahead of Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2020-21.

“I had a conversation with the Director of Football, Mr. Ravi Puskur, and he convinced me that the ISL would be the right place for me. There are seven foreign players allowed in every squad, it’s going to be a tightly fought league with back to back matches and he told me that I would definitely have my work cut out. I genuinely think playing in India can only be good for me and my career at the moment, as long as I can perform well and help the team win matches,” he said.

READ: Donachie: Can’t wait to get to India and start working with the team

The 27-year-old defender believes that the club’s attacking prowess will suit his style well, having watched a few videos of the Gaurs prior to his move. “My agent in India sent me a few videos which were mostly goal compilations, but I liked what I saw. The team plays free-flowing football and having worked with Spanish coaches before in my career, I’m used to playing out from the back and am comfortable in possession,” Donachie said.

The Australian has also been impressed with the club’s professionalism and is looking forward to linking up with his new teammates. “What impressed me was the professionalism the club showed and how quickly everything was sorted out. Goa came in with an offer and within a week and a half everything was figured out. I’m waiting for my visa now and am hoping I can land in Goa as soon as possible,” he shared.

“I hope that I get at least three to four weeks to train with the squad. It would make the adjustment easier and help me get used to the way the club wants to play football,” the defender added.