Exclusive: I am working very hard for the AFC Asian Cup- Ashqiue Kuruniyan

The forward also welcomed the international breaks in the ISL this season.

Since the last term of the Indian Super League (ISL), Ashqiue Kuruniyan has emerged as one of the young talents to shine for the country on the international stage. The FC Pune City forward was part of the Indian team in the Intercontinental Cup as well as the SAFF Cup recently and put up commendable displays for the Blue Tigers.

In an exclusive interview, the 21 years old forward illuminated on his side's new coach Miguel Angel Portugal and his stint with Villarreal C. "I am feeling good after the Villarreal stint. I suffered a muscle strain during the Intercontinental Cup, but its fine now," he started.

Speaking about his experience in the SAFF Cup the forward said, "It was good. It was the best time of my footballing career so far. I got the chance to play and score goals for the national team."

When questioned about how he's feeling under the new coach of Pune City Portugal he said, "I am feeling great. Every coach has a different style and we have to play according to that. So, its different from last time."

However, the Stallions are facing a hard time with the Spaniard at the helm as they drew their first game of the season with Delhi Dynamos and fell to a deflating 2-0 defeat against state rivals Mumbai City on Friday.

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"We are working really hard for it and I am seeing changes in myself. So yes, I am working very hard for it," Kuruniyan said when questioned about the upcoming AFC Asian Cup.

The striker also talked about the three international breaks in this ISL season, the first-of-their-kind to be implemented in the league since its inception. "Its good that the season duration has increased, otherwise we have to sit at home for 3-4 months once the season gets over."

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The youngster was not given proper chances last season under Ranko Popovic. But, after a somewhat successful SAFF Cup, the youngster was expected to get more game-time this season and has started both of his side's games so far. 

"It's entirely on the coach. If I get fit into his game style then I will definitely get a lot of games. But, if I fail to fit into his style than I guess I won't get much game-time," he concluded.