Sports Minister Vijay Goel on Monday expressed concern over top football teams leaving the I-league, promising to speak to All India Football Federation (AIFF) to resolve the problem.
"I will speak to those from the federation and ask them to find a resolution to the problem," Goel said when asked if he was concerned about the exodus of top-flight teams from the I-league, following the emergence of the Indian Super League (ISL).
Top teams from Goa like the Salgaocar FC and Sport Clube de Goa have already exited the I-league, while former league winners Dempo FC are also expected to follow suit.
Goel was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the unveiling of the BRICS Under-17 football tournament logo here.
Goel said both he as well as Prime Minister Narendra Modi were keen on promoting football and other sports in the country.
He added the U-17 tournament, which will be held parallel to the BRICS Summit, will strengthen the ties between the member-states.
"We should encourage such games between member states as that will increase bonding and create a warm atmosphere between the people of those countries," Goel said.
--IANS
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