The signing of former Portsmouth striker James Keene was confirmed by NorthEast United FC a few days ago, but the Englishman is already in Shillong, training with the rest of the squad. He also took out time today to take part in an extended Q&A session on NorthEast United's Facebook page. We've selected highlights of that session for you below:Q: What is your expectation from the ISL?- Arnab StoicA: I expect it to be exciting, with the big names in the league. The fans, especially from the NorthEast, and the rest of India to be at the stadiums to make the league exciting for the players as well. I hope this league takes football to the next level.Q: Why did you join NorthEast United FC?- Rahul GunjalkarA: I have never played in Asia, and I wanted to experience playing in India. When I got the opportunity to sign for NEUFC I didn't hesitate one bit, and I made the best decision of my career.Q: How do you see NorthEastern players as compared to players from the rest of India?- Ju ChanA: I have only worked with NorthEast United and am very pleased from what I see with my team. We have a great attitude and are willing to work hard. It's hard to compare because I have not seen any other players from outside the NorthEast.Q: Are you excited to be playing against players like Anelka and Del Piero?- Prabhav TalukdarA: Yes, they are some of the best players in the world. I am thrilled to be part of the league and get the opportunity to play against and with some of the best players.Q: How do you plan to contribute to Indian football? Given a chance would you take up the role of a coach in the future?- Raj ThakuriaA: I want to score goals and make the league exciting to watch for the fans. As for coaching, India is a growing nation in football. So if the chance comes up one day it's something I would think about.Q: If not striker, would you play as an attacking midfielder or a winger?- Saljrak MarakA: I have played all across midfield. But my main position is striker.Q: What style of play are you comfortable with? A possession-based game or counter attack?- Paarth RazdanA: My style as a striker is powerful, strong, goal-scoring. I work hard for the team and after years of football can adapt to any style.Q: Have you noticed anything special about India?- Supriyo MahantyA: I love Indian food, especially Khasi food in Shillong, and also other Indian dishes. They are really tasty. Sometimes a little bit too spicy!Q: Messi or Ronaldo?- Milun Haulun ZoA: Ronaldo has it all.Q: Welcome to India. Which is the best club you have played against?- Mrinal Kumar BarmanA: The best club I have played against is probably Lazio. I have also played against Celtic, West Brom, Napoli, Valencia, and many other big clubs.Q: Do you think the ISL will have a good or bad impact on Indian football?- Gaurav RaichandaniA: It will have a great impact on Indian football. International names will come to help the Indian players develop and learn from the star players, and the coaching will also improve. So all round, it's a very positive move for Indian football.Q: How do you feel about playing in India and its conditions?- Amit MandalA: The conditions for playing football in Shillong are just like playing in England with all the rain, just a little bit warmer. So far I haven't played anywhere else in India so I will only get to know later about the conditions in other places. But I'm sure it's going to be hot. However, being a footballer you must adapt to any condition. So I will make sure that my team mates and me give our best when we play outside Shillong.Q: Who is your favourite among the marquee players in the ISL?- Avinash GanapuleA: I prefer Del Piero. He is the best.Q: As a youngster, who was your idol?- Emmanuel Benia TantiA: Teddy Sheringham from England. I also had the pleasure of working and playing with him at Portsmouth. He taught me a lot as a player.Q: What is the most memorable moment of your career so far?- Aryan NathA: My greatest moment is my Premiership debut at Fratton Park against Bolton, and playing with Teddy Sheringham.Q: What do you think about our co-owner John Abraham?- Rahul GunjalkarA: I haven't met him but I heard he is a fantastic man and very passionate about football. It would be a pleasure to meet him.Q: You will win our hearts if you say "Jai Hind"!- Diptanil BaruaA: Jai Hind!
