Frenchman Alexandre Serge Coeff is one of the foreign players signed by Kerala Blasters ahead of the Indian Super League (ISL) Season 11, which kicks off on Friday. With several years of top-flight football in France and Spain under his belt, the 32-year-old Coeff is expected to be a vital presence in Blaster’s backline. 

A France youth international, Coeff will be looking to emulate the success of his countryman Cedric Hengbart at Blasters, who was part of the Yellow Brigade when they reached the final in 2014 and 2016 editions of the glitzy league. "I know Cedric personally. This is the second time I'm playing for a club where Cedric has played. He is an aggressive defender and a footballer par excellence," Coeff said of Cedric who is currently serving as assistant coach at Ligue 2 club Caen.

However, Coeff, who debuted for Blasters in the Durand Cup, does not want to compare himself with the player-turned-manager. "I'm not an aggressive player. My style of play is different. That said, I always give more than my 100 per cent on the pitch," Coeff said during a chat with Manorama. 

You were playing for French club Stade Malherbe Caen in Ligue 2. What prompted you to join Blasters?

I have known Blasters' sporting director Karolis Skinkys for several years. A couple of years ago, he had told me that he was in India with ISL side Kerala Blasters. I had heard of Blasters' passionate fan base. There was so much warmth and love when I came down to Kochi. 

How did you become a footballer? 

Football is one of the most popular sports in France. My father and grandfather were footballers. In fact, every male member in my family plays the game. Naturally, I fell in love with football from a young age. I have travelled a lot, playing in different cities and for different clubs. Finally, the journey has taken me to Kerala!

At Blasters, what will be your roles and responsibilities? 

I can play in multiple roles. I used to play as a centre-back or as a defensive midfielder. I love to keep the ball and pass it around. I believe my performance will automatically improve when I have more time on the ball. I make it a point to communicate this aspect of my game with coaches. I'm ready to don any role that benefits the team.   

Who was your idol while growing up?

To be honest, I do not have a role model. I'm a huge admirer of the Spanish football style. This strategy involves building from the back, using short, precise passes to advance up the field and retain control. I'm inclined to play smart and creative football. I always look for opportunities to create and exploit space in the opponent half. That is why I said I'm not an aggressive player!

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