Big stars won't agree to spend one whole year in India: Renedy Singh

"The merger cannot happen straightaway. The big stars who come to play in the ISL would not agree to spend one whole year in India. As of now, they are comfortable staying here for three-four months. But, a few years down the line, the prospect needs to be explored," Renedy Singh told PTI.

The former Mohun Bagan and East Bengal midfielder is pleased that the current Indian players are getting the opportunity, through ISL, to learn from some of the best players and managers in the world, which will help in their development as a footballer.

"In our times, we did not get that opportunity. Look at Jeje (Lalpekhlua). He is doing so well in the I-League because he got to rub shoulders with great players and coaches in the ISL," he added.

However, the 36-year-old has urged the AIFF to increase the number of teams in the I-League next season, as a lot of footballers are missing out on the chance to play.

"The number of I-League teams would have to increase. It is never good to see a player not getting a team and sitting at home. From next year onwards, the AIFF is trying to get two more teams," he said.

At the halfway mark of the 2015-16 season, Mohun Bagan and East Bengal are occupying the top two positions in the points table, and Renedy Singh has expressed his delight at seeing the two Kolkata giants perform well in the national league once again. He said, "When I started playing club football in the mid 90s, clubs from Kolkata used to rule the scene. Subsequently, the Goan clubs took over. But, now is the time for Kolkata again”.