KOCHI: As the Kerala Blasters FC commenced their training at the Corporation Stadium, Thrissur, two greats of Kerala football — I M Vijayan and Jo Paul Ancheri — were at hand to witness a fresh chapter being etched to the rich history of the state.
Both Vijayan and Ancheri were happy to have the new club near their hometown and saw it fitting for Blasters to train at Thrissur that has also produced Victor Manjila and C V Pappachan among others.
“This is the best ground we have today in Kerala where the team can train. We are excited and so is the large football fan base of Thrissur,” said Ancheri. The duo interacted and wished good luck to the players and staff of Blasters during their short visit to the training base.
But one person has had an impression on Vijayan like no other. “David James surprised me with his down to earth personality as well as his willingness to interact with the local football fans,” said Vijayan of Team KB’s marquee player and manager.
“You would not believe this is someone who has played in the World Cup for England. We, Indians, have got a lot to learn from James, in football and otherwise,” the legend added.
“James was very friendly and spoke about the Blasters’ plans of starting academies in the state to nurture talent,” said Ancheri.
The duo also revealed that they will be acting as ‘icons’ of Kerala Blasters during the Hero Indian Super League.
“We will be with the team during their matches in Kochi and will cheer them on,” said Vijayan.