Ahead of Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2020-21, NorthEast United FC have handed the reins to Gerard Nus, who is looking forward to helping in the growth and development of the Highlanders. The Spaniard has been following Indian football closely for a couple of seasons, and shared his delight at the prospect of coaching in the Hero ISL.

“It is a great opportunity. There is no doubt that during the last couple of years, Indian football has improved quickly. Many well-known players with remarkable careers, such as Asamoah Gyan or Tim Cahill have chosen to play in this league and that is something that not many leagues can say. I am delighted to help this club grow and I cannot wait to get started,” Nus said in an interview to goal.com.

The 35-year-old Spaniard has worked with many top-class managers during his days as a coach, including former Liverpool head coach Rafael Benitez, Gus Poyet at Brighton and former Highlanders boss Avram Grant. While discussing his initial years in coaching, Nus admitted that working with such caliber of coaches has helped him immensely.

READ: Gerard Nus eager to build ‘something special’ at NorthEast United FC

“I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with some of the greatest coaches in the world. Avram Grant is not only an amazing coach but also a great person and leader. Gus Poyet and Rafael Benitez have also had unbelievable careers and they’ve proven their qualities everywhere they have coached. They have made me a better coach and I cannot wait to see them continue to succeed,” he shared.

The upcoming season is set to take place in Goa behind closed doors due to COVID-19 protocols and Nus heaped praise on the Hero ISL for going ahead with the league while taking the necessary precautions. “We are blessed to have the chance to play the game we love and to do what we like the most. I would like to say thank you to all the officials of the ISL for allowing us to get back to the field,” Nus said.

“During these unprecedented times, we have faced challenges that we would have never expected and this league has proven its resilience. It is important that we keep respecting the protocols established and that we work hard to provide the best possible football to our fans,” the Spaniard concluded.