Kerala Blasters FC’s first southern derby of Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 will see them take on Chennaiyin FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai on Friday. Kerala right-back Rino Anto supplied an incisive cross for CK Vineeth to head in the winning goal in the last game. Speaking to indiansuperleague.com ahead of the fixture, the Indian full-back opened up about his relationship with Vineeth, the upcoming derby and more. Here are the excerpts.

First of all, your cross was converted by CK in the last match, how happy are you about that?

It’s a great feeling because CK is my best friend for five years and we’re playing together for six years now. It’s a great feeling that your best friend scored a crucial goal.

Considering your relationship with CK, how important has it been for the team?

It’s not just about CK, everyone tried their best in the last match. The result was a team effort. We bounced back in Kerala against NorthEast. It’s a great feeling to get back to winning ways.

Your team has legendary players from Manchester United – Dimitar Berbatov and Wes brown. Your coach also coached Manchester United for about six years, so what is your playing style, is it all about attack like Man United?

That we will see tomorrow.

How has ISL revolutionized Indian football?

I think ISL has changed everything in Indian football. Before, in the I-League we did not have a lot of media coverage. I think ISL improved the game in that respect and at the grassroots level also, Indian football has a good future.

On a lighter note, what is your dream five-a-side team?

I’ll go for Gianluigi Buffon, Fabio Cannavaro, Paolo Maldini, Francesco Totti, Ronaldo – the Brazilian one and myself.

This is the first southern derby for you this season, what is your message for the travelling Manjappada fans?

For me, it’s not just about the derby. We try to get three points every match. I’ll say best of luck to the Kerala and Chennai fans also.