Leicester City FC legend Steve Walsh has dubbed the Next Generation Cup 2022 as a wonderful tournament for young Indian footballers. Walsh also advised the budding youngsters to focus on the learning experience more than anything else.

"I think the Next Generation Cup is such a great tournament. The key is to enjoy and try and make a name for themselves. They are playing against some good quality teams, and they will learn from that. I think it must be a fantastic thing for the young players to come over from their country and actually take part in this competition," Walsh told NDTV Sports.

Bengaluru FC faced Leicester City FC in the semi-finals of the Next Gen Cup and endured a hard-fought 6-3 defeat at the hands of the Foxes which involved three quick-fire goals from the Blue Colts, enough to give the English side a scare before they secured victory.

Walsh is aware of the football developments in India and is delighted to see the growth achieved by FSDL (Football Sports Development Limited) in tandem with the Premier League to take the sport to new heights.

"I have always been a keen follower of the development of Indian football, and I believe it is wonderful what is happening. I am sure the younger ones will be the biggest beneficiaries of this partnership. This gives them an opportunity to develop and learn from the lens of how youth football operates here in England," added the 57-year-old.

The Foxes face South African side Stellenbosch in Group A Next Gen Midlands Final while the Blue Colts will square off with Nottingham Forest FC's academy side for the third-place playoff on Saturday.

"In this trip, it will be important for the players to listen to their coaches as they would be guided on the best way to play in all the different types of formations modern football is played. The main thing is learning quickly and doing your best for your team," Walsh concluded in his message for the emerging Indian players.