Zodingliana Ralte

Guwahati, Oct. 26: Known for his skills with the set pieces, North East United FC midfielder Zodingliana Ralte is determined not to let chances slip past his boots in the ongoing Indian Super League.

The creative midfielder and a playmaker from Mizoram who styles himself after Zinedine Zidane, started his football journey at the young age of seven.

Progressing through the youth ranks of the state-age group teams, Zodingliana was a part of the India under-14, under-16 and the under-19 sides.

In an exclusive interview with The Telegraph, Zodingliana spoke on his journey so far as well as on several aspects surrounding the ISL and the I-League.

Excerpts from the interview:

TT: You have been quite creative in the midfield, especially when it comes to providing chances for the forwards to convert. How frustrating it is for you when these attempts go in vain?

ZR: A little bit but it also pushes me to keep on trying.

Being a midfielder I am supposed to create chances for them to score and sometimes missing the target does happen on the pitch but one needs to keep going.

TT: You are often rated as a set piece specialist and how important is it for you in a match?

ZR: They are of course very important for us as they can win matches. We have won by utilising set pieces on many occasions and to capitalise and help my team win gives me immense pleasure.

TT: Regarding your role model Zinedine Zidane and your style of play?

ZR: He still remains my role model and is perhaps the best player in the world. I try to play like him and copy him on and off the field and the way he carried himself.

TT: How did it all start for you as a footballer?

ZR: I started playing football at the school level in Mizoram before being selected for the state under-14 team for the football festival at Goa.

After that it has been quite a journey, as I went on to be a part of the national group teams.

TT: What do you have to say regarding the ISL and how is it different from the I-League?

ZR: It’s a new trend and it has come up with some of the big names in world football.

A lot of people are turning up for the matches and it is a big boost to football in India.

It is different from the I-league although I would never say it is bad.

It’s a new start with the ISL and I think football can reach new heights in India.

TT: Regarding your side North East United FC?

ZR: We have got a fantastic side and I rate them very high. It has been a very good experience for me to play under the guidance of such a good coach and staff.

TT: What about your future goals?

ZR: I know I can be a good player if I am not injured.

My goal would be to focus on my game and train hard.