Kerala Blasters FC have strengthened their attack with the addition of English striker Gary Hooper ahead of Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2020-21. A Scottish Premier League Golden Boot winner during one of his title winning campaigns with Celtic, the forward expressed his excitement at playing for the Kochi-based club in an interview with sportskeeda.com and is eager to prove himself on Indian football’s biggest stage.

“I feel really proud and happy to have signed for one of the biggest clubs in India. I’m really excited for the season to start. I want to give my best and score goals for our fans and help the team,” the Englishman said.

“Since I was with the Wellington Phoenix, I haven’t gotten the chance to follow ISL. But I have heard a lot about the Indian Super League, and it appears to be very exciting too. I’m eagerly looking forward to testing myself and seeing how I perform this season,” he added.

The experienced forward, who has competed and scored in the UEFA Champions League, will be partnered alongside some young, up and coming domestic talents like Rahul KP and Shaiborlang Kharpan. While offering insight on the makings of a top-quality striker, Hooper insisted that he will look to pass on invaluable experience to the budding talents in the Kerala squad.

“To be a top striker, one needs to score goals and help the team win. It is also important for a striker to have the composure and awareness to hold up the ball and get others involved in the attack,” Hooper opined.

With Hero ISL 2020-21 a little over three weeks away, the 32-year-old striker has set lofty ambitions with the club. “I’m looking forward to scoring as many goals as I can this season and help the club compete for top positions,” he declared.