Hope to have a big impact as a box-to-box midfielder, says ATK Mohun Bagan’s Joni Kauko

Indian Super League (ISL) franchise ATK Mohun Bagan’s midfielder Joni Kauko has stated that he wishes to leave a massive impact in attack as a box-to-box midfielder. Kauko termed it extremely rare to witness a midfielder who can score a lot of goals. The Finnish footballer wishes to emerge as a player capable enough of such success, having done so the past three years in Denmark. Kauko shared this viewpoint in an exclusive interaction with ATK Mohun Bagan’s official website.

“Depends which system we are playing but I hope I will have a big impact on attacking wise as a box-to-box midfielder. It’s pretty rare to have a midfielder who can score a lot of goals and I hope I will be able to do that here also like I have done the past 3 years in Denmark,” stated the footballer.

“I haven’t seen any of the other teams but I believe we have a very strong squad. Good mix of different types of players who can bring a lot of quality on the pitch. We have been training hard for a while now, which is a good thing and I hope I will adapt well to his playing style. I can see his (manager Antonio Habas) passion for football and that’s always a thing that I respect. After the first training I was very much worried because it was too much for a northern guy who is used to snow and cold. But now in the second week, I feel much better, it will take some time to adapt but day by day it’s getting better,” added Kauko.

“I had many options but I wanted something different”

The 31-year-old revealed the reason behind his decision to play for the Kolkata-based franchise, further discussing the final of the previous edition of ISL.

“I had many options but I wanted something different at this moment in my career so, in the end, ATKMB was an easy decision and also the road I wanted to try. Have never been to India before, and that’s one reason why I’m here now. I had no idea where I’m going but I’m really happy to see that everyone is taking me well here. Think I am able to adapt very well to different styles and leagues so I hope it won’t take that long. I watched last year’s final. It was pretty intense with a lot of things happening.”

Kauko was most recently seen in action representing Finland in Euro 2020, where he made his presence felt with fine performances. The footballer believes that the experience will help him perform better in the upcoming edition of ISL.

“Hope I am able to help the group with my experience”

“Of course, when you play in big tournaments at high level, it will help you to bring along some of that experience and I hope I am able to help the whole group with the experience that I have.”

The 31-year-old expressed his relief following the recovery of Cristian Eriksen, sharing his emotions while witnessing the footballer’s heart attack on the field.

“Not good. A lot of things were going on in my head. I’m glad he is feeling better now,” he concluded.