Michael Chopra excited to play in Indian Super League

Indian origin English footballer Michael Chopra Saturday confirmed his participation in the inaugural season of the Hero Indian Super League starting October.

Chopra will feature in the 'central international player pool' for the players' draft to be held here Aug 21.

"I am delighted to be part of the new Indian Super League. It's an exciting time for Indian football and an honour for me to be involved in this new era," said the former Newcastle United striker.

At 30, Chopra has amassed vast footballing experience. A product of the Newcastle United youth system - while he was just 10 - Chopra played for England at all age category competitions starting U16.

Chopra also represented England at 2003 FIFA World Youth Championship. In his long and impressive career, Chopra has played for Sunderland, Cardiff City, Ipswich Town, Blackpool and has spent loan spells at Watford Nottingham Forest and Barnsley.

Chopra has made over 300 club appearances at senior level and scored 100 plus goals in his impressive playing career. Chopra, in year 2010 had expressed his interest to play for Indian national team, but that remained just a dream. The Indian Super League, which is promoted by IMG-Reliance and Star India, provided an excellent opportunity for the striker to show his skills, for the first time, on Indian soil.

"Michael's excellent profile and achievements are well known to Indian football fans, and his interest in football in India, as well as his desire to play for the Indian National Team, is well-documented. We're thrilled that he's signed to participate in the Hero Indian Super League, and look forward to seeing him in action for the very first time on Indian soil," said Andy Knee, vice president business development - Football at IMG.