Wednesday 24 September 2014 13:36, UK
Louis Saha expects his former French international team-mate Robert Pires to bring a touch of class to the forthcoming Indian Super League.
Alongside new manager Zico and cricketer and team co-owner Virat Kohli, Pires was formally unveiled as FC Goa's designated marquee player at a press conference in the coastal state on Tuesday.
And Saha insists the former Arsenal, Marseille and Villarreal winger is going to India with intention of turning FC Goa into a winning franchise.
"Robert Pires is a class player and a player who is enjoyable to watch so it's a real pleasure to see him commit to the Indian Super League," Saha told Sky Sports.
He (Pires) wants to play, he wants to enjoy his football and he's missing it so he will definitely bring that enthusiasm.
"I know that Robert is a very motivated player. He wants to play, he wants to enjoy his football and he's missing it so he will definitely bring that enthusiasm.
"On top of that, he's a winner and you have to keep that in mind because it's a tournament and he will want to win it."
Former Juventus striker David Trezeguet will also play in the inaugural league and is the marquee signing for FC Pune City.
He scored for his new side in a warm-up game in Pune on Tuesday and Saha expects more of the same from his compatriot when the 10-week league begins on October 12.
"I think David will have a pretty similar impact because I know that he really, really wants to score goals so you can definitely expect goals from him," Saha said.
"You can also expect dedication and I think on the side he will definitely try and teach the youngsters.
"He's always played the game with a smile on his face so I wish him all the luck to go on and maybe break the 20-goal mark in the next three months."
Former Manchester United, Newcastle and Lazio striker Saha was heavily linked with a move to the Indian Super League earlier this year.
But Saha says he will not be joining the ISL before Friday’s player registration deadline, although he hopes the league will be a success.
He added: "My other commitments make it challenging for me to go to India. I just find that I can't do both which is a shame, but I wish India and the Indian Super League to do really well and I will be surprised if that is not the case."
Meanwhile, Manchester United midfielder Anderson and ex-Chelsea forward Eidur Gudjohnsen have reportedly emerged as targets for ISL clubs with two days remaining to complete player acquisitions.
