The ISL is a 'dream come true' for striker Balwant Singh.Former JCT and Churchill Brothers alumnus Balwant Singh is one of the hottest strikers in Indian football. He was in red hot form last season which earned him a call up to the national team. The strongly built 27-year-old player from Hoshiarpur, Punjab, has now been confirmed by Chennaiyin FC for the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) on loan from Mohun Bagan AC. He is already in Bengaluru training with his new club. Balwant took part in an extended conversation over the phone with Indiansuperleague.com. Here are some excerpts…How does it feel to finally be a part of Chennaiyin FC?It is like a dream come true for me. I have been super excited ever since I was told that I had an opportunity to represent Chennai in the ISL. I have just joined up with the squad and can hardly wait for the first game.You have experience playing in the I-League. What is one major difference that you have noticed since joining Chennaiyin FC?The one major difference has been the infrastructure and the willingness of everyone to get this underway. I have been infected by the energy demonstrated by the owners and players who are committed to making this first season of the ISL a success for Chennaiyin FC.How have your family and friends reacted to the news of your involvement in the ISL?They are overjoyed. There is so much excitement in my community with respect to the ISL. Everybody is waiting to witness the revolution in Indian football. I am being asked so many questions and I have been wished well by so many people who want me to do well. I am grateful for all the love, faith and support that has been showered on me by my family and friends.How important is this platform for you?It is a very big opportunity for me. The chance to rub shoulders with some great international players and coaches is something that every footballer dreams of. I want to seize this opportunity with both hands and I want to use this platform to showcase my talents to the world.How is the team spirit in the camp? It's been very positive and encouraging. We are all gelling as a team and trying to get to know each other better. It's only been a few days in training, but we are hoping to have a good rapport in the weeks going forward. Everyone is pumped for the challenge.What is your message for the fans? I request them to fill the stadiums and support the team, for a team is as good as its fans. We want to give our all for them. We also want to ensure that we repay their faith. So I would once again ask all the fans to get behind us and root for us.
