ISL 2015: Lucio reveals Zico's influence in joining Indian Super League outfit FC Goa

Brazil legend Lucio is happy to play under countryman Zico in the Indian Super League (ISL) for FC Goa. The defender is the marquee player of the franchise and replaced former Arsenal star Robert Pires.

The 37-year-old has started in three matches for the sunny state this season. The World Cup winner with Brazil likes challenges and playing in India convinced him to make a switch to the ISL.

Speaking exclusively to IBTimes UK, Lucio said: "Throughout my career, I have played across other parts of the world. It is a new challenge to play in the ISL in a new country and wanted to try something different. Zico asked me if I am willing to join him at FC Goa. An invite from him is what excited me."

Zico fielded the same starting XI for the first three matches and the former Inter Milan centre-back picked up a muscle injury in his side's 4-0 defeat to Chennaiyin FC. Following the defeat, FC Goa, bounced back with a 3-1 victory over NorthEast United.

The former Bayern Munich star has claimed that he is "very happy" with the way things have progressed so far this term and is hoping his side can make it to the later stages of the competition. The centre-back also hailed the high standards set by the organisers in managing the league.

"I am very happy with the way things have gone, baring the injuries. It is helping me play and as a player I always want to win. I am happy to play a part and want to go forward in the tournament," he explained.

"ISL is very well organised. Everything is done really well. Scheduling of the matches, security... it is also good that people come with their families, who want to go and watch a good spectacle. The matches are also very good," he concluded.