Shillong, Oct 20: Punjab FC midfielder Samuel Lyngdoh Kynshi has returned to the club’s camp after fulfilling his duty on his first international call-up to represent India in the men’s football tournament at the Asian Games 2023, which took place in Hangzhou, China.
The 23-year-old impressed heavily last season with his brilliance in the I-League while playing for Real Kashmir. Having signed for Punjab FC just prior to their inaugural Indian Super League season, the player looks forward to a successful season ahead.
“This is our first season in the ISL. Everyone at the club has worked incredibly hard and I have full faith in the team that we will do well going forward and I will do my best to help the team in every way I can,” Samuel said in an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda.
Last season, the midfielder had an outstanding campaign with Real Kashmir FC in the I-League, scoring six goals and providing five assists. Now, he faces a new challenge with his new club in the top-flight league.
Regarding his transition from the I-League to the ISL, he said, “Every level has its challenges and when you reach the top tier, of course, you have to adapt and push yourself to do well. It’s a challenge but that’s what a football player always wants to excel.”
Samuel remains as ambitious as ever, determined to prove himself in the top tier of Indian football and contribute to his team’s pursuit of their goals.
“I want to do well for the team and contribute as much as I can to help the team do well and achieve the targets, as well as improve myself as a player during the season and compete for all the remaining games,” he shared.
The Meghalaya player marked his debut against Myanmar during the Asian Games. The midfielder garnered invaluable experience during the competition in China and is now determined to apply this experience in the ISL, propelling him closer to his aspiration of representing the nation in the AFC Asian Cup.
“Of course, it’s a dream for any Indian footballer as it’s the highest level of international football in Asia and to play in this competition is a great honour. I have to do a lot more and work very hard to perform better and right now, I am focused on my team Punjab FC, and working towards our goal,” he stated.
