Rod Fanni sure knows how to make an entrance.
The former French international started his first game with the Bleu-blanc-noir on Saturday, and the task was as big as the game itself: shutting down two of the better forwards in MLS, Sebastian Giovinco and Jozy Altidore. Considering the final score, I guess we could say he, and the rest of the Impact’s defense, did a pretty good job.
“Papi Fanni played an excellent game today,” joked midfielder Samuel Piette. “He was an extremely important part of our central defense. He was imposing and won duels against Altidore. He’s very calm on the ball and launches the attack efficiently as well. His performance was truly great against Toronto.”
Fanni may have joined the Impact less than two weeks ago, but his influence is already starting to grow. Samuel Piette even dubbed him with the nickname “Papi Fanni”, although according to the young midfielder, he assigns nicknames to everyone on the team.
“He’s very influential,” said head coach Rémi Garde. “He got better as the game went on. He did us good in the second half, especially on situations when we needed to be able to read the combination play between Giovinco and Altidore, and when we needed a strong physical presence. He did everything I expected of him today.”
Going strong at 36
Montreal’s supporters saw a snippet of what a player like Rod Fanni can do against a very good attacking side. Although he joined the team in the week of the game against Columbus, when the 36-year-old was going to get his first start remained unknown, considering the center back hadn’t played a professional game in a while.
“I know myself, and I’m not at 100% just yet,” said Rod Fanni. “It’s normal, I haven’t played a full game in a while. But it went well for a first game. I’m confident for what’s to come and this makes me eager to work harder to be at my best as soon as possible.”
The Frenchman has until March 31, which is the date of the Impact’s next game, when the Bleu-blanc-noir will travel to Seattle to face the Sounders FC. Although we haven’t seen the best of what he has to offer, it’s difficult not to sing his praises after a defensive performance of that magnitude.
“When you see a player still playing at 36, without having many injuries throughout his career, you can guess that he’s a great professional,” added Garde. “He loves this game and he’s very passionate. I verified this through a lot of phone calls with people I know in France, because I didn’t know Rod personally. I knew he needed more time, but I needed him today, and when I asked him he said of course I’m ready.”
