ISL: Andre Santos joins FC Goa squad at training

Andre Santos with coach Zico during FC Goa’s training session

October 09, 2014 Panaji, Goa: Former Arsenal and Brazil international player Andre Santos who has been signed on for FC Goa stepped onto the ground at Tilak Maidan, Vasco for a day of training with Brazilian coach Zico, and the squad.

Said Andre Santos post his training session,”It is a pleasure that I got a chance to come to Goa. People received me very warmly. I am a bit tired because of the long journey but I am glad to be here. It is really amazing training with Zico and Robert Pires. The whole team accepted me warmly on the first day itself and i am sure we will put forward a very good tournament”

Talking about Andre Santos, coach Zico said," It is really good that Andre Santos has come over in to the squad. He was the last piece that was missing, now we are a full team. His quality and experience will help the team a lot. Even though’ he has come in late, the team has accepted him and they are very excited too.

A youth product of Figueirense in Brazil, Santos participated and helped Brazil capture the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup. He joined EPL team Arsenal from Fenerbache in 2011 and eventually moved to Brazil to play with Gremio followed by Flamengo.

At the national level, André Santos was initially considered the heir to the throne occupied by Roberto Carlos. He represented the 'Seleção' in 24 matches, and was a part of the 2009 Confederations Cup, 2010 FIFA World Cup, and 2011 Copa America squads.

FC Goa is all set to face Chennaiyin FC in their opening game on 15th October 2014.