ISL: Florent Malouda says Delhi Dynamos are unfazed by hostile FC Goa support

John Arne Riise (L) and Florent Malouda (C) join Robin Singh (R) as the Delhi Dynamos’ new signings this season

Delhi Dynamos narrowly missed out on the semi-final berth last season and their activity off the field since has suggested that the Dynamos are determined to go all the way as the Indian Super League returns with its second season. The arrival of Brazilian legend Roberto Carlos as player-manager has lifted the spirits in the Delhi camp.

Apart from the obvious top signing of Roberto Carlos, the Dynamos have also added the likes of Florent Malouda and John Arne Riise to their squad. The duo have played for top European clubs like Chelsea and Liverpool respectively, and bring loads of experience to the table.

With the Dynamos travelling south to face FC Goa, the Dynamos will need every bit of that experience if they are to overcome a Goa side and the hostile atmosphere at the Fatorda stadium to claim all three points.

We have players who can play in front of big crowds: Malouda

While speaking to the media at the ISL Media Day in Mumbai last week, Florent Malouda was bullish about his team’s approach towards their opening game away to FC Goa. The Frenchman was quick to acknowledge the passion for football in the state of Goa, but felt his side would be well prepared for that.

“Our first game is against Goa and we know how passionate their fans are,” Malouda said.

“Their supporters are going to make it very difficult for us, but we are strong enough to cope. We have some big players who are used to playing in front of such crowds and I’m sure we can handle it,” said the former Chelsea midfielder.

Malouda claimed that his team have high ambitions and will head southwards with an aim to perform well and get all three points.

“We have big ambitions at Delhi Dynamos. With the quality of our squad we will go into every game with an aim to win it and the game against FC Goa will be no different.

“It will be our first game and we want to get off to a winning start,” added the left-footed midfielder.

Malouda, who has made 80 appearances for his country, said his team enjoys playing in hostile environment and fired a warning at The Gaurs that the hostile atmosphere will provide added motivation to his team.

“We are not worried about their support. In fact I am sure the hostile atmosphere will spur us on to play a lot better. I can say it will only make us more dangerous as we tend to relish such games,” the 35-year-old added.

Having played at some of the most hostile stadia in the world, Malouda’s experience will come in handy for the Delhi Dynamos players and his presence in midfield will go a long way in settling down the Dynamos early on in the game.