Picture courtesy: Kerala Blasters FC
The Hero Indian Super League (ISL) reaches its climax as Kerala Blasters FC and Atlético de Kolkata prepare for the grand final at Mumbai’s D.Y. Patil Stadium on Sunday.
“I think this is possibly the biggest final in Indian football,” Kerala Blasters FC player-cum-coach David James told during the pre-match press conference on Friday. “I came here with no knowledge of the I-League and now we’re speaking about the ISL’s first final.”
“The world’s media wants to know about it (the ISL), so to think that’s it’s easy or that there is no pressure is completely wrong. It’s been three months, it’s been serious from day one, I’m a competitor and I have a team of competitors and we want to win the cup.”
“I think we’re set for a wonderful encounter tomorrow; it’s going to be a wonderful and exciting game.”
“I’ve got to pick a side for tomorrow, there are a few players who are suspended or injured. We’ve been rotating the squad throughout the tournament, I know whatever team I pick tomorrow, they will do their best,” the former England goalkeeper added.
Canadian international and Kerala Blasters forward Iain Hume praised the fans in Kerala for their massive support. “It’s been great ever since we’ve come here, the support has been terrific, we’ve played in front massive crowds,” said Hume.
Talking about the Hero Indian Super League final, he added, “We’re really excited about the final, the boys are really looking forward to it, and it’s going to be a big event.”