NEW DELHI, Nov 23: After a sixth-place finish in the previous edition of I-League, Neroca FC will be looking to go all guns blazing as the new season of the league gets underway on November 30. The side has brought in a number of experienced players � both Indian and foreigners � for the latest campaign, one of them being midfielder Siam Hanghal, who is a two-time league champion with Bengaluru FC in 2013-14 and 2015-16.
�Playing in the I-League was the turning point of my career, certainly,� Hanghal said, before adding: �It has helped me improve by leaps and bounds, and has made me tough. I know what it takes to come out on top in the I-League, where each game is a challenge and the competition is so intense.�
The 26-year-old has played in clubs across the country and the upcoming season will the first time the Manipur-born Hanghal will be wearing the colours of a club from his home state, which he termed as a �motivating factor�.
He mentioned: �It�s good to be back in Manipur. It�s a really big thing for me and will be a new look challenge to look forward to. Everyone knows the passion for football in the north-east and I am sure playing in front of the home fans will motivate all the players to give their best.�
For the first time, fans in Manipur and across India will witness the �Imphal Derby� after the promotion of Tiddim Road Athletic Union Football Club (TRAU FC) to the Hero I-League. According to Hanghal, the fixture is something the whole team is looking forward to.
�The derbies against TRAU FC will be two of the most important matches of the season. They are also building a strong team and all of us are looking forward to playing against them. I�m sure it will be a treat for football lovers in Manipur as well as the whole of India,� he said. � IANS
