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What's the story?
Former English forward Emile Heskey has voiced his thoughts on playing a 'legends series' in India that could see yester-year greats such as Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard amongst others landing in the country to take part in the exhibition matches.
The former England forward praised India's love for football and said, "I am in talks with Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, Robbie Fowler and a few of my other former team-mates to come here for the fans because they are simply amazing and they love English football.
“We are also planning to conduct coaching clinics in various cities in India to start promotional activities in this football-crazy country,” Heskey was quipped saying indicating that football fans in India will have a lot to celebrate in the upcoming year.
In case you didn't know
India has already hosted a galaxy of stars with big names such as Ryan Giggs, Ronaldinho amongst others have taken part in the Premier Futsal that features 5-a-side teams.
In addition to this, ex-Manchester United players Dimitar Berbatov, Wes Brown and Irishman Robbie Keane have all made their presence felt in the Indian Super League which has witnessed some exquisite football over the last four years.
The heart of the Matter
Heskey, who represented Leicester City for six years from 1994 before making a move to Liverpool in 2000 and has also played alongside Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard spoke about the Legends Series, which will serve as an initiative to develop and help grow the sport in India.
The series, which will feature former England footballers has been proposed to be played in three cities, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru and will also see three coaching clinics featuring in it as well.
What's next?
The ongoing season of the Indian Super League is in full flow and has witnessed some quality football from the experienced footballers. This has also rubbed off on the youngsters who promise to provide unmatched entertainment for the next few years.
Author's Take
The 'Legend Series', if indeed it does take place will be a massive boost to the growth of Indian football. It will also be a learning curve for youngsters as they watch the stars in action as well as entertainment for the fans who will certainly turn up in large numbers to witness the legends of the game.
