Dagnall up for Indian Super League challenge with Kerala Blasters
Englishman Chris Dagnall is confident of replicating influential Iain Hume’s impact on Kerala Blasters after replacing the Canadian for the second edition of the Indian Super League.
Hume, who scored five of Blasters’ 13 goals in the opening season, moved to defending champions Atletico de Kolkata for ISL 2015. The eight-team league kicks off on October 3 with Chennaiyin FC hosting Kolkata.
“Yes, I know my role in the team pretty well. I know I am here as a replacement for someone who I understand was quite popular with the fans,” Dagnall, a striker, told a news conference in Thiruvananthapuram.
“Hopefully I will be able to meet the expectations of the fans. I am in good shape this season and I have scored goals in the practice matches. Initially I found the climate to be too hot but I have come to terms with it. Deely the trainer is doing a good job with us,” Dagnall said.
Blasters finished runners-up in the inaugural edition.
The 29-year-old Dagnall, previously with English second division side Leyton Orient, moved to Kerala Blasters after being offered the role of striker by coach Peter Taylor.
“Peter told me that ISL was a new and an exciting league. He asked me if I was interested in joining Blasters as striker. I always fancy new leagues and new challenges. I didn’t have to think much to accept the offer,’’ Dangall said.
Dagnall said he watched the highlights of the previous edition of the ISL to understand the quality of the league.
“The standard of football is quite high. I was impressed with the crowd. It is a dream for every player to play before such big crowds. I am looking forward to that experience in Kochi,’’ he said.
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