Back in August, when the summer transfer window was open, FC Goa extensively searched for an Asian defender. One who played in India was Dylan Fox, and several others were on the list too, mainly including an Iranian, Tajik international, one of the ASEAN country players and many more.
Without a doubt, FC Goa chose Fox over all others. A player who fits into the style of Ferrando and also has the experience of playing in India.
“We talked in the off-season. I looked at FC Goa and liked the way they played. Their last season was good for me,” Fox told IFTWC on Saturday.
The transfer didn’t happen all of a sudden. FC Goa had to pay 40K USD to NorthEast United FC for getting his signature.
Earlier, when he signed for NorthEast United FC last season, the fans expected a lot from him. Without fail, he delivered for his team being defensively solid.
“Sergio Ramos is my favourite defender. I love him to watch because he’s a goalscoring centre-back. I intend to score few goals this season,” he says.
FC Goa started the pre-season early and got the opportunity to participate in the prestigious Durand Cup. Later, they went on winning, becoming the first ISL club to win this tournament.
Dylan that time didn’t arrive in India; hence other four foreigners who were available were registered for Durand Cup. “I came when the competition was going on. I didn’t even kick the ball, but I already had the medal. This club is built for success. Winning Durand Cup was a good start for the team.
“We had a good pre-season, and I am happy with all the boys in the backline. I am looking forward to give the best and lead in the defence,” he said.
From 2015 to 2019, Fox played for A-League side Wellington Phoenix. Now on the rival side, ATK Mohun Bagan’s striker Roy Krishna shared the same dressing room. Fox admits that “those four years were the great one; we remain to be good friends” off the field.
When Fox signed for Korean second division side FC Anyang, he didn’t get the opportunity to play a single match. Hence, he returned to Australia, signing for Central Coast Mariners. In between these transfer saga, he faced an ankle injury.
“It was a difficult time for me. I went through an injury but keeping patience, I recovered. Here in India too, the humidity affects a bit, so it takes time to adjust,” he said.
Clocking 1533 minutes in 21 matches for NorthEast United, he made 94 clearances. He picked up just one yellow card in the whole season. Without a doubt, FC Goa made the right choice, states these numbers.
“The team always has to play the attacking style of football. Also, we need to be defensively strong. FC Goa has a foundation of playing good football.”
Fox also admitted how his social media gets flooded with fans’ messages. “Since I came to India, fans started showing their support and love,” he said. “I hope they come back to stands soon, and we play in front of them.”
Pandemic has resulted in playing all ISL games behind doors without any spectators. Fox admits, “without fans, football is nothing.“
“I can’t wait to show all the fans what I can do this season,” he said.
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