Under-20 coach Rashid Narain is busy preparing his young team for the upcoming season. He spoke to us about the challenges that lie ahead and his way of working with youth players.

Thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to talk to us. Would you like to tell us a little bit about yourself? 

I was born in Amsterdam. My mum is from Seychelles and my dad is from Surinam, but I have lived in Amsterdam my whole life. I started off as a tennis coach in both Seychelles and Amsterdam. When I returned to live in Seychelles I wanted to continue working in sports and that’s how I got in football coaching.

For the first time ever Rovers will have a team participating in the Under-20 league. How are you preparing for this?

Most importantly we are looking at the development of the players. Both the players and I know the Under-20 league will not be easy but that’s why we train regularly and make sure that the players work hard in each session. We have also been trying to play regular friendlies against school teams and older players to help bring the boys into that competition rhythm.

The young boys have spent much of the preseason training in close proximity to the First Team. How do you think this has benefitted them?

Being around the First Team helps the younger players see how much work is involved and realise the effort required to get there. This is important for them as it sets a goal for them to try and achieve and make it into the senior team.

You have a very young team with many of your players aged between 15 and 17. How do you think they will cope playing Under-20 football?

Of course it will be tough for them and a new experience. But I believe in my team and that they will get through it. This level is all about the development of the players so even if mistakes are made as long as we learn from them and keep our heads high it will be a success.

In the short time you have been working with him, how has our Head Coach Steve Herbots influenced you?

I am glad to have him showing me the ropes. He has a lot of experience and with this he is showing me the game. Making me be aware of the tactical parts of it, showing me how to interact with the players and create a bond with them. Teaching me to push them to improve and create a fire inside them.

Do you think we will see any of the young players breaking into the First Team in the near future?

I am confident that our youth players will help the first team. They are working really hard with that goal in mind.

What advice would you give to an aspiring player today?

Work hard, never lose focus, keep your head up high, keep dreaming, keep believing, be passionate and also keep enjoying the game.