Looking to start afresh at Mumbai FC: Justine Stephen

Mumbai FC's latest recruit Justine Stephen said Tuesday that he aims to kick-start his career in his second stint for the I-League side.

The 26-year-old centre-back agreed to return to the Mumbai-based football team after a year, having turned out for Kolkata side Mohammedan Sporting Club in 2013-14.

"I am happy to be back here. The last time I played for Mumbai it was fun. I managed to gel with the squad well. At Mohammedan SC, I lacked game time because of personal issues back home. I am looking forward to starting afresh at Mumbai FC. To be honest, it feels like I never left," Stephen said.

He expressed his willingness to help his new team achieve their ambition of faring well in the I-League. Mumbai FC finished ninth among 13 teams in the 2013-14 I-League.

"I want to do well here and help the team move forward. It's an ambitious club and is moving the right way forward," the Kerala-born footballer said.

He also conveyed his happiness to be playing under coach Khalid Jamil. "The head coach wanted me back here. He is a dedicated man. He thinks football all the time. Playing under his guidance is a great thing," the Real Madrid fan, who idolises Cristiano Ronaldo said.