Kerala Blasters FC gear up to host Chennaiyin FC in the all-important southern derby at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Friday in Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18. With four points separating the two sides, a win for either team will be crucial as far as their playoff chances are concerned. The hosts have looked a completely different outfit under David James with the addition of new signings like Icelander Gudjon Baldvinsson bolstering the squad as well. On the eve of the match, indiansuperleague.com caught up with the 32-year-old forward for his views on the Hero ISL, Kerala and more. Here are the excerpts.  

This is your first time in India, so how has the experience been?

Yes, it is my first time in India and so far it has been a great experience. I got a warm welcome from the Kerala Blasters family, so I am very happy to be here.

How different is India when compared to the other countries you have played in?

It is different from everything I have experienced. It’s a different culture, everything is different and I like seeing and experiencing new and different things. It has been like I said, a great experience and I am hoping to see more of India.

How difficult was it to adapt to the conditions and the team?

Yes, the first game was a shock to me. It is really hot here in Kerala. I played for 20 minutes and I couldn’t breathe. After a few minutes, I had to stop, drink water and could not believe how hard it was. But after training every day and playing the games, I think, I have become a little bit stronger. I hope my form stays and I can show what I am capable of.

As you have been travelling with the team, which has been your favourite place and favourite food?

Every city has its own kind of magic, so I wouldn’t pick one, but of course, Kerala has been my favourite so far. The food has been great and I like the different Indian masalas. Indian food has been one of my favourites for a long time and it’s great to be here.

Your thoughts on tomorrow’s match against Chennaiyin?

I think all the games that we played the last few days have been like final games. It’s like we have to win this one to have a chance and it’s the same in the next one too. So, it’s no different tomorrow as we have to win. I think it is going to be a great game and if we fight like we are doing, then we can get the three points.

Any message for the fans?

Hope to see you all in the stadium. Hope to see the ‘Yellow Army’ and hopefully, we can do the ‘Viking Clap’.