Chennaiyin FC skipper and talisman Anirudh Thapa cannot wait to perform in front of the devout CFC fans at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai.

The Hero Indian Super League (ISL) is back with the 2022-23 season, which begins on October 7 will see Kerala Blasters FC play the season opener against East Bengal FC. Thapa revealed that football felt amiss in the last two seasons after playing the season behind closed doors with a bio-bubble in place without the support of fans.

“I think the fans are excited and so are we. They will be back after two years. We missed them and it will be great to meet them and entertain them. Having fans will create an amazing atmosphere in this season’s ISL for sure,” Thapa told the Times of India.

“Last two years have been tough for us. I can recall the packed stands in Chennai with the people of the city behind us in each and every match. There have been special nights at the Marina Arena and I am looking forward to experiencing them back once again,” he added.

With a new manager in Thomas Brdaric, Chennaiyin FC will look to start a new chapter under his regime and regain their winning pedigree in the Hero ISL. The midfielder also opened up about putting up a spectacular show in the away games, wanting to benefit the most from it.

“You know the matches in Bengaluru, Kochi, and Kolkata will be amazing as well because you have a great turnout in these centres. I am most excited to play the four teams away from home as well,” the midfielder added.

Adapting to a new standard by having weekend-centric matches will make it even more appealing for fans to attend the match live from the stadiums.

“Weekly matches will be nice for both players as well as fans, and will give ample time in between matches so everyone can enjoy (themselves) better,” he added.

The two-time Hero ISL champions will open their 2022-23 campaign in an away game against ATK Mohun Bagan on October 11.

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2022-2023Chennaiyin FC Anirudh Thapa