ISL final will be biggest game in India yet: David James
Mumbai, Dec 19: Former England goalkeeper and head coach of Kerala Blasters FC David James has described the final of the Indian Super League (ISL) to be played Saturday to be the biggest ever game in India yet.
The Blasters would be facing Atletico de Kolkata for the title here at DY Patil Stadium after the Kerala outfit made it to the final by beating Chennayin FC 4-3 on aggregate.
Atletico beat FC Goa 4-2 on penalties in the second leg play-off to reach the final.
"I think this is possibly the biggest final in Indian football. I came here with no knowledge of the I-League and now we're speaking about the ISL's first final," James was quoted as saying by the indiansuperleague.com on Friday.
The former Liverpool man, also the custodian for the Blasters, said he was determined to give his best.
"The world's media wants to know about it, 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 (Saturday); it's going to be a wonderful and exciting game," James said.
Asked about his team for the summit clash, James remained tight lipped and said he would field the best possible squad that was available to him.
"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," said the 44-year-old, who features third in the list of best goalkeepers in the ISL and has conceded a goal only every 102 minutes.
Canada's former international striker Iain Hume, who accompanied James to the press conference, praised the Kerala fans one last time and described the final as a big event.
"It's been great ever since we've come here, the support has been terrific, we've played in front of massive crowds. We're really excited about the final, the boys are really looking forward to it, and it's going to be a big event," said Hume, who has five goals and three assists to his credit in the ISL.