Sourav Mukherjee: Northeast United FC striker Aladdin Ajaraie already scored 11 goals and 4 assists in his 10 ISL matches. Aladdin Azarei is the only man whom North East United FC is dreaming of turning around. Northeast star Aladdin in give an exclusive interview with Ray Sportz ahead of the upcoming tough clash at home against Mohun Bagan SuperGiants.

Q: North East United FC is going to take on the table topper Mohunbagan. How much confidence to beat them in your home ground?
Aladdin: Mohun Bagan are a good team with a good coach and good players. But yes, we are playing at home and we love playing in front of our home fans. We are confident if we play our best football, we can get three points.

Q: Previously you have met Mohun Bagan two times & you scored in both matches. Do you feel more hungry when you face this team?*
Aladdin: For me, it’s about helping the team. If my goal/goals can help the team win, I am happy. I am equally hungry against every opposition.

Q: Last match you have lost against East Bengal. What went wrong & what you have learnt from that match?*
Aladdin: Like the coach said, we need to be more calm and we have to play our game and against Mohun Bagan, we will try and do the same.

Q: How are you enjoying the Journey with North East United FC?*
Aladdin: The journey with NorthEast United FC has been incredible so far. Winning the Durand Cup was a special moment which I will forever cherish. At the same time, people at the club – my teammates, coaches, all the staff, and the management – have all been incredible, working to improve every day. So, I am very happy.

Q: Which two or three teams do you think are mostly strong contenders of this ISL?*
Aladdin: ISL is a very competitive league and that’s why I wanted to join it. Every team is a strong team and anyone can beat anyone.

Q: We saw your celebration is like the popular character Luffy of the Japanese anime One Piece. What is the secret behind this?*
Aladdin: I don’t watch anime too much but I love this particular one. I liked the character of Luffy and that’s how I thought of doing this celebration. I started it only this season because that is how I want people to remember me and when I see our Young Highlanders celebrate like me, it gives me happiness.

Q: Now you have scored 11 goals from 10 matches. Are you looking for the highest goal scorer this season?*
Aladdin: I am happy that I have so far managed to help the team with 11 goals. It’s a long season and it’s too soon to talk about the golden boot. I am fully focused on my job of helping the team and without their help, I wouldn’t be able to score so many goals.

Q: What is your take on ISL & Indian football?*
Aladdin: The level of competition is very high in ISL with many quality players. When I compare it with Qatar, I feel that the ISL is better for me as a player because of the high volume of top players and that makes it a tough league.