Following the recent success of Northeast clubs, former India footballer and FC Pune City's assistant coach Renedy Singh on Wednesday urged more state clubs to come forward and contribute to the growth of Indian football.
Northeast clubs Aizawl FC and Neroca FC won I-League and second division league respectively.
“The contribution of Aizawl FC, Shillong Lajong and Neroca FC will not only amplify the love for Football in Northeast India but also provides hope for other cities and states to develop football and create their own success story,” the Imphal-born footballer said in a statement.
Renedy expressed his desire to see the football talent coming from unconventional regions across India.
“We need more participation from states like Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Rajasthan or even football-centric cities like Siliguri, Thiruvananthapuram and Hyderabad to revolutionise football in India,” he added.
The 37-year-old believes the dual league (a merger of I-League and ISL) will be a sheer success and assure great entertainment.
“As the President of the FPAI, I will be more than happy if there were 20 or even 30 teams playing throughout the year in a longer league format and players are provided extended contracts. Longer leagues will only make the Indian football ecosystem sustainable for the clubs as well as the players,” Renedy added.