Chungbuk Cheongju's Venício Fernandes: "We have more and more strength to compete for the top"

Chungbuk Cheongju defender Venício Fernandes believes that there's much more to come from him and the team this season and that he'll keep working hard to make sure he's helping the Lions reach their goals.

Venício Fernandes joined K League 2 outfit Chungbuk Cheongju on a free transfer from Chinese side SJZ Gongfu where he had spent around 18 months, making 44 appearances, scoring five, and assisting one.

The 30-year-old, who has also played in Finland, his native Brazil, as well as China, has been limited to five sub appearances in the league this season, but started the 2-0 Korean Cup second round win over Goeje Citizen and the third round away win over K League 1 side Daegu. 

Venício says that there's more to come from the Lions this season.

"I think what sets us apart is this team as a whole. We know that we are new to K2 and perhaps that is why the view from the outside is not a big bet. But the work is evolving more and more, we understand the coach's vision more and more and we always try to put it into practice. It's not an easy championship, but this means that we have more and more strength to compete for the top as well, and qualifying in the Cup against Daegu, from K1, gave us even more confidence to continue advancing."

He's also confident that there's more to come from him, too.

"Ever since I arrived here I had it in my head that it would be different even because of Korea's style. At no point did I want to run over the process and I always had the greatest respect and support for whoever was playing. The secret is to never stop working and know that one day the opportunity will appear, and that will last a lifetime. I really believe in my potential and I aim for great things this season, both individually and collectively."

Naturally, having fellow Brazilian Paulinho in the dressing room has helped Venício settle.

"My relationship with Paulinho is great. He's a blessed guy, he works a lot and I'm happy to share everyday life with him. Without a shadow of a doubt, having him as a companion helps a lot in my adaptation here, mainly because he was there last year and that's why he always gives me advice."

So far, Venício has had to be patient but says that it's all about helping the team.

"I always want to be the best in my position. And I believe that it is not impossible and I try to aim for big things. Of course, the main objective is to help Cheongju grow more and more, together with my teammates, to the goal. But I have it in my head that, individually, it will be a fantastic season."