Mumbai: One of the most celebrated players of the golden generation of French football, Robert Pires, has decided to feature as a marquee figure in the inaugural edition of Indian Super League (ISL) scheduled to be held later this year.

Pires was a member of the 1998 World Cup winning France team as well as an important member of the victorious Euro 2000 squad having played alongside the legendary Zinedine Zidane and Thierry Henry. One of the most decorated wingers during the late 90`s and early part of 2000, Pires has played 79 times for the French national side scoring 14 goals.

Pires in his own right has been an Arsenal legend having represented Arsenal for six years between 2000 and 2006 appearing in 189 matches with 62 goals to his credit. He was a part of the Arsene Wenger coached squad that won three FA Cups and two Premier League titles.

He has later played for top La Liga side Villareal.

At 40, surely his best days are behind him but will certainly have a towering presence for the junior Indian players, who would learn from his oodles of experience.

"I am very happy to be part of the new League when passion for football in India is on the rise. It will be great to play in front of the enthusiastic Indian fans as well as share all my knowledge with my team mates," Pires was quoted as saying in a media release.

"I am sure the League will be a huge success and I am delighted to be part of it," he added.

The Indian Super League`s official social media interface www.facebook.com/indiansuperleague and twitter.com/Indsuperleague went live from Monday.