Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2020-21 promises to be bigger than ever before with 11 teams going toe-to-toe for the coveted trophy following SC East Bengal’s inclusion to the league. The team will be led by Liverpool legend and former English striker Robbie Fowler during their Hero ISL bow and while speaking to the Times of India in a recent interview, the 45-year-old expressed his happiness with the opportunity of managing ‘one of the best-supported teams in India.’  

“I'm still trying to be the very best that I can be. I am willing to develop as a manager; this is where I'm totally focused and happy to be at SC East Bengal. It's a new opportunity, coming over here and managing one of the best-supported teams in India. I am a passionate man myself and look at what football can do to people. If I can try to bring a little bit of joy to it with my football philosophy at SC East Bengal, I'll be more than happy,” Fowler said.

“Sometimes strange things happen for right reasons and this is why I'm here with a new challenge. This is where I'm not only looking at developing East Bengal as a team but also developing myself as a manager. I want to be the best. I want to test myself against the best in the world. For me it doesn't really matter where it is,” he added.

READ: Robbie Fowler aims to make SC East Bengal competitive in Hero ISL debut

Fowler believes that the Hero ISL is a ‘growing league’ and he explained why he feels that’s the case. “The ISL is a growing league and when you look at the potential scope and population of India and how people love the game, it can grow. So, why not try to penetrate it? Why not try to develop a few Indian players and get them better,” he asked.

While sharing his expectations for the club in Hero ISL 2020-21, Fowler said, “We prepare to work well. We've got to do what is needed to be done, trying to be successful. We are a bit behind in terms of preparation. But we have to adapt in this situation and try to be a force. Football is such a powerful tool and being involved in it is itself just incredible.”

Fowler also urged his players to enjoy their football while maintaining a certain level of competitiveness. “I want the players to enjoy it and the enjoyment comes with winning games right through to training sessions. And of course, we want to be competitive. I played football to be a winner. I've come here with the same mentality,” he said.