Kerala FC’s Durand Cup triumph will help football in the state, believes former India captain IM Vijayan.

“Kerala FC are doing pretty well and Durand Cup win is their biggest success till date. It’s a big boost for football in Kerala,” Vijayan, one of the best footballers to play for India, told The Telegraph on Sunday.

Last time a Kerala team won the Durand Cup was way back in 1997. FC Kochin had won 3-1 and IM Vijayan scored a brace. “I watched Saturday’s match on TV. It is always tough to play against a Calcutta club in Calcutta. But Kerala FC players kept their cool and did their job. This win will definitely inspire kids to play football,” Vijayan said.

“People in our state love the game. This success gives them a reason to celebrate,” he said. The former India striker is associated with Kerala FC. “I am a big fan of Kerala FC. I know some of the players personally that is why I’m very happy for them.”

Vijayan praised Marcus Joseph (Trinidad & Tobago) for his excellent performance in the tournament.

“Scoring 11 goals is not a matter of joke but he has done that. He is very good. He can hold the ball and has the quality to control the game. The other striker Henry Kisekka also played his part. Hope they keep performing like this in coming days,” Vijayan said.

With I-League just over two months away, Vijayan believes Durand Cup win will boost the confidence of Kerala FC.

“Durand Cup is a big tournament. Since it was played in Calcutta, the stage was bigger. Kerala FC’s win will help players to do better in other tournaments as well” Vijayan said.

Vijayan also feels proud for the Kerala boys who are part of the team. “Mohammed Rashid, Mohammed Irshad and Mohamed Salah all played well.”

The former striker would have been happier had any of the Kerala players taken the centre stage like Joseph did.