Pascal Miliien, the Haitian international, is looking forward to generate pace for defending champions Sheikh Russell in the Bangladesh Premier League. The 27-year old attacking midfielder arrived in the capital yesterday and was watching his team play Feni Soccer at the big bowl and the slow pace of game caught his eye.
“I have watched the first half and I don’t know, I found it a little slow. Whatever it is, I have to pick up the speed, and it’s my game to go fast,” said Pascal, who was born in Haiti, but moved to Lakeland, Florida as a teenager. He played his youth club soccer for HC United. He attended Auburndale High School,where he totaled 114 goals in three seasons with 40 assists and was named 2005 Florida Gatorade Soccer Player of the Year.
Pascal explained his late arrival. “I was a little bit late because my father was sick and I have to take care of my family. I also have a foundation or academy where I have to take care of the kids. That’s why I had to go home, now I have a four months contact here,” said the Haitian.
Pascal has played 14 international matches, the last of which was against El Salvador when he scored four goals and played alongside good friend Sony Norde, who is playing for Sheikh Jamal. Last season, he played in Sligo Rovers FC in Ireland premiership, where his team finished third and won the F.A. I. Cup.
“Sony told me about Bangladesh. He told me that football in this part of the world is a bit competitive. Whatever it is I am looking forward to put on my best,” said Pascal. “I came here to play as I want to travel. I have played in America, I have played in Europe, now I have arrived here I want to gain experience and prove myself. Sony is playing here, I have seen a number of players coming here when I was in Malaysia.”
Regarding his current condition, Pascal said, “I cannot adjudge myself at the moment. I have been running and lifting as per the instructions of my personal trainer. I think its football and I’m used to it, I don’t have any injuries. I have to play and I think it will be ok, I am looking forward to get on the field.”
He seemed to be a bit disturbed when a comparison with Sony Norde was raised.“Sony is Sony, I have a lot of respect for him but I am Pascal. I am here to do the best for my team. I don’t like any comparisons, I won’t compete with anybody apart from me,” said the Haitian.