India not ready for longer and bigger ISL, says Malouda

The 35-year old, an integral part of the Dynamos outfit that currently lags league leaders Pune by just one point, also spoke about his team's winning ambitions this year. “We are not conceding many goals. Our ambition is to win the league and we are trying to win it with our style, with tactical discipline. We need to defend well and look for scoring opportunities. Have to create opportunities,” he told The Hindu newspaper.

The footballer was full of praise for multiple aspects of the league. “It is physically very demanding because there is a game every three days. But don’t underestimate the physical intensity of this league.

“I like the structure of the ISL, the logistics of it, the venues, the diversity of the spectators, the atmosphere overall. It helps you to perform. The quality of play is good. Something is happening all the time. It’s great.”

The midfielder had a few sobering observations about the league as well.“We should not compare the speed and tempo. It is light when compared to other leagues. You must keep the weather in mind. In this heat this is the pace you will get.

“India is not ready yet to have a longer and bigger league but the ISL is relevant to developing football in India. Please don’t compare it with EPL.”

Malouda, who was part of the France national team that reached the World Cup final in 2006, reserved special praise for his Indian team-mates. “(Indian) Players may lack basics and academies at grass root as compared to Europe but they learn very quickly.

“They are improving quickly. You need to attract players, create an interest in the game, lot of work to be done in terms of structure.

“The Indian players have the potential. It’s been a pleasure working with them. I like their human qualities. They are so willing to work and learn, expect advice and work on it straightaway,” he quipped.