Pune: The Pune based ISL franchise, FC Pune City, which is co-owned by the Rajesh Wadhawan Group and Hrithik Roshan added India international Francis Fernandes to strengthen their Indian options for the 2016 season of the league.
The Goan impressed FC Pune City CEO Gaurav Modwel, who, speaking about this acquisition, said, “Francis has been an asset for all teams he has played for, including the national side. His versatility of playing on the wings, attacking midfield or any position that the team needs him in will give the Coach a lot of flexibility.”
The Indian International winger, Fernandes began his career playing under-19 at Vasco SC to its senior team. 2006 saw him moving to Salgaocar where he became an integral part of the setup until he joined Dempo in 2014. For his skill sets he has been a regular on the national side since 2011. Speaking about his ISL stint, he has played for Delhi Dynamos since the start of the popular Football League.
The FC Pune City Head coach, Antonio Habas who was delighted with addition of experienced Goan Winger to the squad, spoke, “Francis adds depth to our wing play. He can play as a second line of attack behind our forwards as well as hold the midfield when needed. We hope he continues to be a value add to our team as much as he was to his previous ones.”
The player, himself, was excited on joining FC Pune City. An excited Fernandes said,“I am thankful to FC Pune City for providing me a new challenge. The club’s heart is in the right place and I want to be a part of their glorious time.”
Speaking about this new association and congratulating the Winger, Co-owner and Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan welcomed Fernandes. “Francis is a wonderful addition to the FC Pune family. His skills will make him an invaluable member of the team. I wish him all the best.”