Fikru Teferra. (TOI Photo)

KOLKATA: Ever since Fikru Teferra set the inaugural edition of Indian Super League afire in 2014 and helped ATK win the title, the Ethiopian striker became the darling of city fans and a potential transfer target for the city's two big clubs - Mohun Bagan and East Bengal.

At the start of the 2017-18 I-League season, the Maidan's 'Big 2' clubs had tried in vain to get Fikru on board. Mohammedan Sporting Club (MSC) have finally managed to land the prized catch and are hoping that Fikru would provide the Midas touch to their campaign in their quest for a return to the premier league.

"Mohammedan Sporting Club want to be the dominant force of Indian football again and I'm looking forward to playing a part in it. It's time to work harder than I ever did and I am willing to do just that," said Fikru, shortly after landing in the city on Saturday.

Fikru emphasized that he always wanted to return to the city and Mohammedan Sporting's offer gave him that opportunity. "Kolkata is very close to my heart. When Mohammedan Sporting came calling I didn't have to think twice. I am delighted to be here and do my best to help them return to I-League," he said.

Fikru - who scored the first-ever goal in the ISL - later visited the Barasat stadium and watched Mohammedan Sporting thrash Chennaiyin FC Reserves 4-0 in their preliminary round match of second division I-League.

The Ethiopian - who played for Bangladesh Premier league side Sheikh Russel KC last season - maintained that he's fit and ready to play for his new club. "I've been doing physical training and practising hard in South Africa. I'm match-fit," he said.

Fikru, however, will have to wait a little longer to make his MSC debut. Biswajit Bhattacharya 's black and white brigade will next face Manipuri outfit TRAU FC in Imphal on April 5, which is expected to see Fikru make his debut in black-and-white jersey.

