Pune: DSK Shivajians' custodian Subrata Paul, who was nominated for the FPAI Fans' Player of the Year Award, started his professional playing career back in 2004. Over the course of his career, he has represented India more than 60 times.

Here are some excerpts from the interview:

Q: Why do you think that the fans nominated you?
A: The fans have supported me everywhere, whether it was in Pune, Mumbai, or Kolkata. Here's a heartfelt thank you to all my fans, not only for the nomination, but also for their unconditional love and support. The fans make me want to keep performing to the best of my abilities.

Q: How come you have such a special bond with the fans?
A: It is mainly because of my performance on the pitch and my attitude beyond it. One has to always welcome the fans with open arms.

Q: What role did your team play in the nomination?
A: Football is a team game. It’s always we before I in football. A lot of credit goes to my teammates, without who's support these performances would not have been possible.

Q: What was the best match you played this season with DSK Shivajians?
A: The best is yet to come. We can reflect on the matches once the season gets over, but not now. The focus is always on the next match and to keep producing match winning performances for DSK Shivajians.

Q: What does the 'PFAI Fans' Player of the Year' nomination mean to you?
A: Personally, the nomination means a lot. It’s always an inspiration to perform well and get nominated amongst the top players. The aim is to keep on playing well for everyone who has supported me over the years.

Q: Do you think you've had a successful 2015-16 season having been nominated for 'FPAI Fans' Player of the Year'?
A: Being a critic of my own performance, only clean sheets in all the matches will suffice.