Kolkata: Haiti international Wedson Anselme made his first official appearance at East Bengal club on Tuesday. The 30 year old striker who arrived in Kolkata today morning visited the club in the evening accompanied by his agent Zulfiqar. He was handed the Number 10 jersey by the club in the presence of club’s football secretary Santosh Bhattacharya. Wedson, who scored 14 goals from 13 matches, did not renew his contract with Bangladesh club Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi. His contract with East Bengal club is for one and half year. Here are the excerpts from his first official interaction with the media persons in the city.
How excited are you about joining East Bengal club?
I am very excited to come here. I know it will be a difficult challenge but I will try to prove myself.
The club was having talks with you for the last couple of seasons. What influenced you to sign in favour of them this season?
Yes I was approached by East Bengal but since I was contracted with Dhanmondi, I was not getting a release from them. Now that my contract is expired I have decided to join East Bengal.
Why did you decide to come to India?
Last time I came to Kolkata, I had a wonderful experience playing at the Shield. To tell you frankly, I didn’t want to lose an opportunity to play for East Bengal this season.
Your former team mate and compatriot Sony Norde plays for the rival club Mohun Bagan. How are you looking forward to that challenge?
Norde is my best friend. But as professional footballers we will leave our friendship behind when we meet against each other on the ground. And it is not about Wedson playing against Norde. East Bengal will play Mohun Bagan.
Did you discuss with Sony before coming to India?
Our discussion revolves around football. I do not want to comment further about it.
Lastly, did you have a word with the club coach Trevor Morgan?
No not yet. Look forward to meeting him.
East Bengal football secretary Santosh Bhattacharya, who played a key role in striking the deal later, told media persons at the club tent that they are also trying to rope in a defensive midfielder.
“Our coach wants a defensive midfielder,” said Mr Bhattacharya.
On being asked whether they have lost hope on Jeje and Norde, the East Bengal football secretary commented, “If it is within our budget, we will definitely try and sign them.”
As far as Do Dong Hyun, Mr Bhattacharya confirmed, “We have already decided to release him. The Coach has also made it clear he do not wish to register him for I League. It is up to him to decide about his future.”