Former NorthEast boss Gerard Nus says he would love to return to India

The Spaniard recently appeared as a special guest on Khel Now's Beyond The Scores podcast.

For only the second time in seven seasons, NorthEast United have finished inside the top four spots of the Indian Super League (ISL). They have thereby qualified for the playoffs, contrary to the expectations of most fans. Credit where it is due, the Highlanders' performances would not have been possible without their coaching staff. The team was led by Gerard Nus initially before he was replaced by Khalid Jamil. The latter continued from where Nus left off, to take the team to the playoffs.

Gerard Nus recently appeared as a special guest on Khel Now's Beyond The Scores podcast. During the hour-long interaction, he opened up on a host of topics like the experience he gained at the club, his impressions on ISL, and more.

The 36-year-old had positive things to say about how the ISL was held this season, despite facing several issues including COVID-19. It is worth noting that high-profile competitions like the Indian Premier League (IPL) were moved overseas to ensure smooth conduct. That is where India's top-flight football league stood out, by deciding to hold it within the country itself.

"I think the organisers of the league are amazing. Before the league began, they had an easy way out. To give up and cancel this season amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and the global shutdown," Nus said.

"But in spite of the existing problems, they managed to run the league very smoothly and hence I have only good things to say about it."

"Of course, there are other aspects that come into play. The clubs also help in conducting the league, for instance. Each club has different resources and varying potential. I feel that also may have helped some of them while the others found it more difficult to cope with the conditions."

"But, at the end of the day, it was challenging for everyone to be without family, friends and other things that are around them in their daily life. Therefore, I thank the organizers for making life easier during this period," he elaborated.

https://youtu.be/0sXf9eSVhJE

Gerard Nus further revealed an interest to return to Indian football. He also hinted that talks have happened with some teams following his exit from NorthEast United.

"Yes, there have been talks. But one should have respect for all the professionals involved in the game," he said, making it clear that he will not be revealing the details. "I would not like it if I was in a club and I find out that they have been talking to someone to take up my place," he added.

"I also want to clarify that I would love to be back in India. My stint in Indian football is a chapter that ended too soon. I am currently recharging my batteries in a bid to return as soon as possible. It would be my biggest pleasure to help in whatever way I can, for the betterment of Indian football," Gerard Nus said.

The former NorthEast head coach signed off soon after, with a parting message for the fans.

"First of all, keep yourself safe. These are dangerous times, especially due to COVID-19. But, in the meantime, also try as much as possible to play outside with friends and family. India is a country with a huge talent pool. Hence, let us support the game till all our hard work bears fruit," he concluded.

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