Few players have had the kind of impact that Iain Hume has had on the Hero Indian Super League (ISL). The Canadian forward, who has featured in all four editions, is undoubtedly one of the finest players to grace the field in the league. From winning the ‘Hero of the League’ in the inaugural season to clinching the title in 2016 with ATK, Hume has had a remarkably successful stint in the Hero ISL. But this mercurial figure isn’t quite just done yet. In a recent interview with indiansuperleague.com, Hume opened up on his time with Kerala Blasters FC as well as what he hopes to achieve in the coming season.

Bidding farewell to Kerala

After a fairly disappointing fourth campaign, Kerala Blasters have decided to part ways with Hume, who missed out on large parts of the season owing to injury. “It was never my intention to part ways with Kerala. I had some good, positive sit-down meetings with the management and owner towards the end of last season, and we were all in agreement that I would return for Hero ISL 2018-19. Somewhere along the last two months, their decision changed, and they messaged me to let me know that they were going to go down a different route. Unfortunately, that’s football. We move on, and all the best to them in the future.” 

The forward also shed some light on the injury struggles he had to deal with during the last campaign. “To be honest, it’s all been a bit alien to me. It’s been my first major injury (apart from my head) in my 18+ years as a professional, so I’m thankful for that. But with the medical staff at Kerala Blasters, they’ve helped me push on and concentrate on getting myself back. I’m still in constant contact with them, as they have stuck to their word of helping me get back to playing. Although their help will be from afar now, they’re still there for me.” 

Proving his mettle 

However, the 34-year-old seems determined to prove his doubters wrong and prove that he still has what it takes when the new season kicks-off. “As I said, it was always my plan to return. I’ve worked hard over the last four years to establish myself in the league, so even more so now, I want to return from the injury that occurred last season and prove I’m still as good and strong as ever.” 

Kerala’s 12^th man 

Despite moving on from Kerala Blasters, Hume still maintains his affection for the Manjappada - the passionate fans of the club. “The fans in Kerala are incredible. They’ve had quite a lot of ups and downs over the last four seasons, but they are the one mainstay at the club. Thick and thin, they’ll always be there supporting the team.” 

Growth in Indian football 

Over the course of the past four years, Indian football has been growing in leaps and bounds and Hume feels that a large part of this is down to the progress made by the Hero ISL. “I think the leagues (Hero ISL and Hero I-League) have been constantly progressing over the last few seasons, as everyone witnessed in the Hero Super Cup. The FIFA Ranking of the national team as well is in a great position. I think the main thing is the continual progression. The Hero ISL is constantly improving, which stands Indian football in a great place for the future.” 

Memories to cherish 

The 34-year-old concluded by highlighting some of his most cherished memories over the seasons. “I have had some great memories out there. Winning the Hero of the League in the inaugural campaign, winning Hero ISL in 2016 with ATK, and I’ve also made some great friends from all corners of the country. However, I wish I’d lifted the league trophy more than once, scored more of the chances I’ve had, etc. But honestly, I always give everything I’ve got, so I try not to leave room for having regrets.”