Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has been spending some time in India, as he is participating in the inaugural edition of the Premier Futsal League. His team, Bengaluru 5s, are out of the tournament, after finishing at the bottom of Group B, but Scholes is expected to stay in India till the end of the tournament.
The midfielder has been speaking to the media, ahead of the semi-finals in Goa, and was asked if he found it difficult to play after such a long time, to which he replied: ”I was asked to play and it’s an exciting game. I did play in China about 18 months ago, but not to this level.
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“The level I have seen here is much higher than any Futsal I have seen before. There are very skillful players and next time, I will be more ready for it. It was quite difficult. But this is a totally different game, it is a small game and you have to be quick, you also need to defend and also have to be attacking to score goals at a very small goal post.”
The former Manchester United star also hopes Indian players could learn from his experience, and that they’re starting to pick up things.
“I hope my presence and experience has helped them. The point is to try and get young Indian players playing more. From what I have seen in my team, they’re very studious and trying to learn all the time, and some of the Indian players have scored quite a few goals in this tournament.”
Also read: Premier Futsal League: 5 factors that will influence the semifinals
Scholes was also asked about his future, and if he wants to continue as a pundit or try coaching. He revealed he has been doing his coaching badges but wants to spend some time with his family at the moment.
“I just continue as a pundit. If there is something that interests me on the coaching side, then possibly. I’ve been doing my coaching badges, and I want to get the pro license. At the moment, I just want to spend time with my young family.”
The former England international was also asked about the appointment of Sam Allardyce, as the England manager, and has backed the former Sunderland manager to succeed.
He said: ”I hope so, time will tell. We’ve got the fingers crossed and we hope he is the right man. I think he got great experience. You look back at his Bolton team and they played some brilliant football. He needs to get the England players to like each other, and integrate a team spirit.”
