Kochi: Recently, former national football team captain I M Vijayan had spoken highly of Kerala Blasters player Vibin Mohanan saying that the young midfielder's entry to the national team should not be delayed. Vijayan is now eagerly waiting to see Adrian Luna, who is returning after a long injury layoff, joining forces with Vibin to bolster the Yellow Brigade's midfield. According to Vijayan, together the Uruguayan and the Thrissur lad can take Blasters' midfield to new heights.  

Vibin has been in fine form in the ongoing 10th edition of the Indian Super League (ISL). He has emerged as one of the most promising youngsters in the league, and most importantly, he could rise to the occasion to fill the void in Blasters' midfield left by the absence of Luna. Apart from anchoring the midfield with excellent offensive and defensive skills, Vibin stepped up in the match against Mohun Bagan Super Giant to score his first goal in the ISL.

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Vibin is currently at the Indian U-23 team's training camp in New Delhi. The Indian colts are scheduled to play two friendlies against the Malaysia U-23 team on March 22 and March 25.

In a chat with Manorama, Vibin talks about his footballing journey.

An unforgettable moment

I am thrilled to have scored my first goal in the ISL, that too against a formidable side like Mohun Bagan Super Giant in front of the home crowd. Although we lost the match 4-3, that moment will be etched in my mind forever. We headed into the half-time break with the resolve to mount a comeback and I'm happy to have found the equaliser in the 54th minute.  

Turning point

I was part of the Blasters' U-15 squad. I got selected to Blasters while studying at the MSP Higher Secondary School in Malappuram. Joining Blasters was the turning point in my life. 

Ultimate dream

As a child, I dreamed of playing for the national team. I'm happy that I'm closer to realising that long-cherished dream.

Training stint in Greece

I have immensely benefitted from the one-month training stint with Greek First Division club OFI Crete. European football is faster and more physical compared to the Indian style. I could improve my technical side of the game. I could also watch closely how European footballers train and how they spend their time off the pitch. I've incorporated some of those elements into my daily routine. 

Favourite player

I don’t have a favourite player. Since I play as a midfielder, I keenly follow midfielders playing at the highest level. While watching the English Premier League or La Liga on television, my eyes will be glued to the middle of the park. 

Style of play

I don’t follow a particular style of play. I always try to play according to match situations. As per the situation, I press aggressively or apply the low block strategy. It depends on the coach's game plan. Under Ivan Vukumanovic, I have been playing a high-pressing game. I had never done it before.

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