Indian football team's midfielder Anirudh Thapa has heaped praise on the Indian cricket legend and Indian Super League (ISL) team Chennaiyin FC co-owner MS Dhoni, saying he really likes the former two-time World Cup-winning captain’s aggression, humility, and his style.

In an interview published on the AIFF website, the youngster has revealed that his game is inspired by the recently retired cricketer’s approach to his own sport while saying he is one of the biggest fans of Dhoni and is looking forward to seeing him playing in the IPL 2020in the UAE for Chennai Super Kings.

Revealing how he drew inspiration from Dhoni, Thapa said: “I have always enjoyed watching Dhoni play because of the style he has. The aggression -- I really like that. It has influenced me in my game too, as football is a game where you need to be tough and aggressive.”

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The Footballer further added on the former captain, “Watching him hit those powerful shots and big sixes -- it has had an effect on me and helped me during those 50-50 challenges fiercely and win them. When I heard the news of his retirement, I was obviously very sad because I'm a big fan of him. Hopefully, I can watch him play in the IPL this time.”

The midfielder, who has made 55 appearances for ISL side Chennaiyin FC, has also recalled how Dhoni motivated the player to guide them to the ISL title in the fourth edition of the competition.

He recalled, “Dhoni is a very humble man, besides being a great person who is always motivating us and sharing his experiences. At team lunches, he would come up and talk to us. He has seen so much in life and all of us are aware of his background. So what he told us made a big difference.”

Thapa signed off by saying, "It was amazing to gain that experience and it was truly a fanboy moment for me."

(With PTI Inputs)