Good start for Chennaiyin FC: Riise

We didn’t lose the match is a big positive. It is always tough to play away in the first game of the season as we never know where we stand against the other teams. We knew ATK would want to beat us as Chennai beat them in the semi-final last year. I am happy the way we responded. From 0-1 we went to 2-1. It was disappointing to concede a late penalty and lose three points in the end. But, it is a good start. I like the way we controlled the game in the second half.

Both are hardworking. Roberto has an offensive flair. He emphasises a lot on skills. Materazzi, on the other hand, wants his team to be compact, stay as a unit. He emphasises more on possession after winning the ball and insists to attack hard. His personality made me agree to join Chennaiyin FC. 

He is a warm person on the pitch. I have played against him. I never knew him off the pitch. He is a nice, down to earth and quiet person. He is hard working. That’s what I like about him. He is very calm with his players and brings the best out of everyone easily.

The local players are eager to work hard. They know what to do to become better players. They ask questions because they want to learn and get better. It proves they want to improve as players. They all come from a different background. The ISL is a big chance for home grown players and I am glad they are making use of the opportunity. It is good for the future of Indian football to have local players rising to the occasion. 

Are you happy with your contribution to Indian football as a marquee player? 

I don’t know what I have done is enough or not. Last year, I wasn’t prepared this well. I am better prepared now. I told the Chennaiyin team owners that I want to do everything to help Indian football be it PR or sponsors etc. But I know, what I do on the pitch will only count. I speak well about the league back home. People in Norway ask me on the quality, standard of the ISL. Some players ask me if they can play here. Looking at these developments, it is a step in the right direction.

It all depends on how it is set up. I am planning to be a player and a coach too. I am here to help Indian football. If it is a good set up I will come back. There is no doubt about it. I don’t want to stop participating after being here for two consecutive years.

I have started coaching in Norway. I need to get a lot of experience before I become a full-time coach. I am fortunate to have played under some of the best managers like Rafael Benítez, Roberto Carlos, Marco Materazzi etc. I am trying to learn the tricks of the trade from them and take the positives out of how they manage.