Kochi: "Believe me; he is young, strong and talented. He'll deliver." These words from former Kerala Blasters head coach Ivan Vukomanovic about Kwame Peprah when the latter joined the team at the start of the 2023-24 Indian Super League (ISL) season were to prove prophetic. Ivan was responding to criticisms over the Ghanaian striker's inclusion in the playing XI despite his repeated failures and inefficiency in front of the goal.
And Peprah has not let Ivan down. Although Mikael Stahre took over the reins of Kerala Blasters replacing Ivan when Peprah returned to the team after a long injury layoff, he got an early chance to impress the new coach. He has scored four goals from Kerala Blasters' first three matches in the ongoing Durand Cup. Blasters have sailed into the quarterfinals of the prestigious tournament, pumping as many as 16 goals past their opponents in the three group-stage matches. The 23-year-old Peprah, who was at the forefront of this stunning goal-fest, talks about the new coach and his expectations for the upcoming season in a chat with Malayala Manorama.
Excerpts:
As Kerala Blasters are gearing up for the new ISL season under Swedish manager Mikael Stahre, how do you feel?
As a professional side, sticking to the coach's strategy is important to succeed. The new coach has put together a game plan. The players need to adjust and adapt to his vision and tactics.
Are you excited to have a new attacking partner in Noah Sadaoui for the new season?
Of course. Dimi (Dimitrios Diamantakos) was my attacking partner last year and, I believe, we did a wonderful job. I could not play the full season with him due to a groin injury. He had departed when I returned to the team. These things are part and parcel of professional football. So far so good! My focus is on gelling with the new players, including Noah, and creating successful partnerships.
How difficult was it to deal with the injury and return to the pitch?
It was not an easy journey. It was the most difficult phase of my life. The franchise management, teammates, and the medical staff supported me and helped me on my journey back to the field. I was able to recover quickly and get back to playing because of them.
What are your expectations for the new season?
A professional footballer is like a soldier. He should always be prepared for battle. My fights are for upholding the pride of my club.
You are going to complete two years in Kerala. How do you feel?
Kerala is a beautiful place that has always piqued my interest. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. I never felt like an outsider here. Kerala is my second home, a home away from home.
