Right step in right direction, says India captain Sunil Chhetri

Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) saw seven Indian Super League (ISL) clubs and RF Young Champs compete for the top honours, with the top two teams getting a chance to participate in NextGen Cup to be held in the UK later this year. On Thursday, Bengaluru FC became the champions of the inaugural edition while Kerala Blasters finished runners-up, meaning both will get the overseas exposure by competing in NextGen Cup. Talismanic India senior team captain Sunil Chhetri, who just got back into action following a seven-month injury layoff, thanked the league organisers for investing in the first-ever development league of its kind, saying they have done what was really needed for the youngsters.

"There are so many players, especially youngsters, who do not get enough chances. Some of them when they do get it, they make the most out of it. Reliance Foundation Development League is the right step forward in the right direction.

So many players of different teams who did not get enough chances in the ISL, played and are playing here. They can also look forward to playing 90 minutes in a competitive tournament," the iconic 37-year-old Bengaluru FC skipper said through a statement shared by the ISL media. Meanwhile, Kerala Blasters FC first team’s head coach Ivan Vukomanovic heaped praise on the organisation of the league, saying such events will only help Indian football in the ‘global picture’.

"I have always said that investing in youth development is the right way. Investing in youth will bring progress to Indian football," said the Serbian gaffer. "The Reliance Foundation Development League is a great thing, especially for the young boys to show their qualities, to compete and from my side I would like to