Forlan Recognizes Maradona's Role in Helping His Sister

Uruguayan World Cup star Diego Forlan today acknowledged Diego Maradona's contribution 13 years ago when the Argentine legend had come to play for a fund-raising event for his paralytic sister.

In 1991, Forlan's elder sister Alejandra was left paralysed following a car accident which proved to be a turning point in the star footballer's life.

After what happened to Alejandra, Forlan decided which way his life was going to take as he chose football over tennis.

"Till I was 15, I was playing both tennis and football. Then I settled for football. In 1997, Maradona had come to play. It was really nice of him. We are not in touch right now, it was nice of him," Forlan told reporters here.

Asked about a striker whom he would pay to watch, Forlan did not specify anyone and said "there are many, midfielders, even goalkeepers who are good."

On Brazil as opponents, Forlan said it's difficult to play against them.

"They play really well," he said.

Asked about use of technology in football, he said, "People are looking at every detail. It does not matter if it's a big one or small. Everyone is trying to make less mistake. This is football now," he quipped.

Forlan is in Kolkata for a television reality show of Mahuaa Bangla channel and will witness a match tomorrow at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan as part of the programme.

"It's been a pleasure for me to appear in India for the first time," he said.