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O'Dea has 20 Ireland caps. Peter Morrison

An ex-Ireland international will be managed by Nicolas Anelka in India next season

“Every team needs one marquee player to bring a bit of attention to the league.”

FORMER IRELAND INTERNATIONAL Darren O’Dea is set for a stint in India, after agreeing to join Mumbai City.

O’Dea, who earned 20 caps for Ireland after making his debut in 2009, left Blackpool after the club were relegated from the Championship at the end of last season.

However, the former Celtic player, who is set to be managed by former Chelsea and Arsenal star Nicolas Anelka, hinted that his stay in India could be a short one.

“I have spoken to 20 to 30 teams, but my little girl starts school this year and we’re settled up in Scotland,” he told BBC Scotland.

“So moving would have been a big decision.

“It is actually only a four-month league, so I’ll go there and, although they’ll probably visit once or twice, it will leave them settled.

“Then, come Christmas, we will wait and see what I will do.”

The 28-year-old also admitted to knowing little about the Indian Super League.

“I haven’t a clue.

“It is only in its second year, so it’s still finding its feet.

“Every team needs one marquee player to bring a bit of attention to the league and they are certainly giving it a good go, the way you will be looked after.

“I’ve spoken to players who played there last year and it was fantastic.

“It is another experience and something I’m looking forward to.”

h/t The Emerald Exiles

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Paul Fennessy
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