Sidebar

21
Thu, Nov

Typography

Former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke Saturday said he would be excited about playing in the Indian Super League (ISL), but contrary to reports in the local media, hadn't signed any contract with the organisers of the tournament - IMG Reliance.

The much-touted ISL was due to be held from January to March but, for the second time, was postponed to September.

Media reports claimed that the former Trinidad and Tobago striker along with former Sweden captain and Arsenal star Fredrik Ljungberg, ex-Argentina striker Hernan Crespo and former France and Arsenal winger Robert Pires had signed for the ISL.

"If it happens, I would be very excited about taking part in it. Talks have been ongoing but I haven't signed any contract with anyone," Yorke said at a partnership launch between Chevrolet India and Manchester United.

Yorke, who had a brief coaching stint in 2010 as an assistant manager with the Trinidad and Tobago national team, said coaching was his passion and it would be ideal to start his career in India.

"Coaching is my passion and I'm working towards getting an A license to become a manager. Managing in India, ideally would be my first step," said Yorke.

Yorke said there was a big difference in the popularity of football in India from 10 years ago.

"Football is catching up in India. There are so many people who follow football religiously here. What India needs is one player to break out and make it to one of the big leagues. That situation would be ideal," he remarked.

Speaking about Manchester United's dismal form in the English Premier League this season, Yorke said that the transitional period was proving to be very difficult for the club.

"Fergie (Alex Ferguson - former manager) leaving the club has not worked out well but we need to give the current manager (David Moyes) all the backing.

"It is a time for damage limitation. Now, we need to work towards qualifying for the European Champions League by finishing in the top four," said Yorke.