Increasingly firm in the red-black goal

Looking to follow in Julio Cesar's footsteps, Lomba makes a positive analysis of his first 20 games as a starter

By From the team at Flamengo's official website - in 24/09/2010 às 07:07

Next Saturday (24.09), goalkeeper Marcelo Lomba will complete his 20th game as a starter for Flamengo in 2010. It will be the 18th consecutive, since he took over the position, in the classic against Botafogo, on July 14. With just over two months as the main player in the position in the red-black squad, the number 29 took stock of the new phase of his career in an exclusive interview with the official website.

Having conceded just 17 goals in 19 matches, an average of 0,89 per match, Lomba knows he's on a roll, but he wants to improve his record even further. A member of the best defense in the first half of the Brasileirão, he aims to replicate that success in the second half to help Flamengo return to the top of the table.

"The joy is back. The team is more relaxed on the field, with the players improving physically and technically, so I believe that in the next rounds the tendency will be to only improve more and more so that we can fight for the top positions again," he said.

Check out the full interview below:

Balance of the period as owner - I'm very happy. I think I've been doing a good job. We managed to have the tightest defense in the first half of the season, the team is on the rise in the championship, and I believe my work is too. I've always trained very hard, and of course I still have a lot to improve and learn, but I'm satisfied. I'll keep up the good work, always thinking about improving to serve Flamengo even better and to establish myself as a starter.

Support within the club - The recognition from my teammates and the coaching staff is great. I've always had everyone's support here, and after I became a starter, things continued that way. Everyone has confidence in my playing style, and that makes a difference.

In the footsteps of Julius Caesar - I've never denied that Julio Cesar is a great inspiration to me. He's a role model on and off the field. He's a great goalkeeper who deeply identifies with the club. He made history here, and I definitely want to follow in his footsteps. He made it to the national team, won everything with Inter Milan, is one of the best goalkeepers in the world, and undoubtedly a role model for me.

Team Evolution - The team managed to score goals again, but now they're conceding a lot as well. We need to find a balance between the two departments to get going. But I believe the team is gelling. We're focused on the work, and we'll try our best to get back to the top of the table.

Crack Factory - Flamengo has always produced stars at home, especially goalkeepers. I think that's the way forward: investing in the youth teams. This has always yielded many positive results for the club, and now it won't be any different. I'm very happy to have realized this dream of growing up here and now being a starter for Flamengo.

Inspiration for young people - I know I'm also an inspiration to some younger players today, and that makes me happy. Ten years ago, I was the one starting out here. Today, I know many see me as an example of someone who succeeded, and that's important. The relationship with all the goalkeepers and Cantareli is great, and that's crucial for us.

Fan support - I was even surprised, because in such a short time, the red-and-black fans have already embraced me in an impressive way. It's a huge reward for my work, and I'm very grateful to this nation for all their affection. I always try to work hard on the field to give back.

Identification - I always emphasize my love and identification with Flamengo. I think this is fundamental. I deeply value love for the jersey, and I think it's crucial in a player's career.