On Wednesday, the Houston Dynamo acquired forward Macoumba Kandji from the Colorado Rapids for a 2014 conditional draft pick. Kandji, who was in preseason camp with the Rapids in Ventura County, joined Houston in Carson for Thursday's training session. Following the session, HoustonDynamo.com caught up with the Senegalese forward to talk about the transition to Houston and his expectations for the year.
HD: What are your initial thoughts on being traded to the Dynamo?
MK: I have been through this before coming from New York to Colorado. You have to get used to the guys and the coaches, but the first session is officially in the books and I thought it was very good. I knew how the Dynamo played so I did not have to adjust to anything new.
HD: What did you know previously about the Dynamo's style of play?
MK: I know they play a straight-up 4-4-2, with both forwards working hard and everyone on the field working hard as a team.
HD: What, if anything, did you know about head coach Dominic Kinnear?
MK: I have heard a lot of good things from various coaches and players. He has done a very good job, and if you look at his resume you will see he goes to the playoffs every year and has won two championships. My first impression is very good. I'm very excited and I can't wait to get to work.
HD: What can Dynamo fans expect out of you as a player?
MK: I am a very hard-working player. Every time I step on the field I will give 110%. I want to score goals and make things happen. I want to work hard, as a team, and fight hard for my position. I spoke to the coach [on Wednesday] and told him the same thing. I am going to give 110% every time I step on the field, be a good pro, on and off the field, and be a good team player.
HD: What are some of your strengths as a player?
MK: My strengths are my speed and my ability to take defenders 1v1. I am also good at holding the ball up top and with my height, I am good at winning balls in the air.
HD: There are no players on the Dynamo with whom you have played with previously. What is it like joining a squad with all new guys?
MK: This is similar to how it was in Colorado. It's brand new and I need to get used to the guys. It's going to take a little time, but so far everything is going great.
HD: Is it nerve-wracking or exciting? How would you describe the experience?
MK: It's not nerve-wracking. This is my fifth year in the league so I am used to it already. It's exciting be on a new team and it's exciting to start playing with these guys. I think this is a very good move for me, and hopefully for the Dynamo as well.
