Exclusive FPDC Interview with french-pakistani goalkeeper Naiman Khan

Naiman Khan

Webmaster and Chief Editor of FootballPakistan.Com Malik Riaz Hai Naveed recently visited France and met french-pakistani goalkeeper Naiman Khan. Naiman plays for Jeunes Bourges Nord in the Division d’Honneur. Hai Naveed watched one of his matches against St. Amand which JBN unfortunately lost. After the match Naiman found time for this exclusive interview.

FootballPakistan.Com (FPDC):

How did you start football?

Naiman Khan (NK):

I started football in Le Mee (France) when I was 7 years old. But at that time I was a striker. I have a bigger brother who also played football, that is why I also joined the club. Zinedine Zidane was my role model at that time so I wanted to become a player like he was.

FPDC:

How did you become a goalkeeper then?

NK:

When I played with my friends we were looking for a goalkeeper, and I accidently said I will do that. After that my friends told me I was good and I should be goalkeeper.

FPDC:

What are the specialities of a GK?

Naiman with Malik Riaz Hai Naveed

NK:

As as GK you need a strong mentality and you should not be afraid. It is because if you conceed a goal, it is not your fault all time but that may decide a match. In french there is a wise word: „The goal is preventable, but it is inevitble to score goals.“

FPDC:

How is you current season?

NK:

I am playing for Jeunes Bourges Nord in the DH Centre France. It was hard for me because I joined this club new in 2011 and everything for me was new and changed. Same goes for this season as we have many new players.  We want to establish our team in the league. This is our main priority.

FPDC:

How do you see your future?

NK:

I know that this is my last season here in Bourges. I know I am still young, but I need to pick up my chances. I have also played in spain, that may be another chance. I want to play on a high level, that’s all.

FPDC:

You have had a trial in Pakistan for our U23 team back 2011, when will we see you in the Pakistan kit?

NK:

I would like to play for Pakistan but that depends on the selection of the coach. If I get selected I will give everything for Pakistan and be really proud to wear the Pakistan kit. I really look forward to the challenge with our other foreign Goalkeeper Yousuf Butt. J