Nigerian import Daniel targets contract with I-League club

“I am targeting a contract with an I-League club after the end of the season here. I was contacted by Churchill Brothers before but at that time, I was in my hometown (in Nigeria). My manager will be in contact with a couple of clubs during the off season,” said Daniel. 

When asked how he managed to strike a deal with Viva, the Nigerian asserted, “I was playing for Customs in Kolkata prior to this. My manager held talks with the club (Viva) and I joined them after the completion of a couple of games (in CFA).” 

“It’s been a good season and I am happy about it. This is just my first here and I can do better. I see a future with this club but it all depends on the manager. We will see if I get my contract renewed,” added the Nigerian. 

Daniel also praised the backroom staff whose efforts often go unnoticed. “He (CM Ranjith) is a fantastic manager. The team management and the backroom staff are amazing as well. I congratulate them because it is certainly not an easy job,” he applauded their effort. 

The former Customs player held the league in high regard and termed it as one of the ‘best’ in India. “It’s a tough league. It’s a very challenging one and I love challenges. This is why it is one of the best divisional leagues in the country. But one thing that has not been favouring us is the weather (laughs),” he remarked. 

Commenting on the local players who ply their trade in the league, he said, “They are very good. The local talents are very strong and they have good tactical knowledge as well. That is why you can’t compare them with the players in the Northeast and Kolkata.” 

On his life so far in the country, he added, “India has a diversified culture which is very good. I have learnt a lot here and I am looking forward to learn more. I am a kind of person who likes to explore new things.” 

Speaking on what he anticipates from his country at the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Russia in 2018, he said, “I will be back home, watching our National team in action. I hope it makes it to the semi-finals as we are sending a good team this time around.”