Former Manchester United fullback Patrice Evra stressed the importance for Indian football to nurture their domestic icons who can inspire millions of kids across the country to take up the sport professionally. In Mumbai for a promotional visit, Evra explained that Indians are physically athletic but need to improve their technical skill sets to play in the top European leagues.

Evra was encouraged by seeing youngsters engage with the game on the streets, saying that it struck a chord with him given that his love for football grew amidst turbulent circumstances in France back in the days. The 42-year-old believed that an Indian international playing in the Premier League can have a massive positive impact in the country.