Kerala Blasters FC's marquee player-cum-coach David James may have declared bankruptcy recently (in May) but said that he has not joined the franchise-based India Super League for the money. "This (joining the ISL) wasn't a financial decision for me. I have aspirations to be a manager after I get my 'A' license. I still love my football and this is another adventure for me," James said at the press conference yesterday.


David James 

Chopra is the first draft pick
Indian-origin footballer Michael Chopra was the first draft pick yesterday. Chopra was chosen by the Sachin Tendulkar co-owned Kerala Blasters for USD 58,185 in the first round of the seven-round draft. However, the striker was not the costliest player picked. That distinction went to French central defender Bernard Mendy, who commanded USD 80,000 and was drafted in by the Chennai franchise.