Bollywood hunk John Abraham is all set to essay the role of legendary footballer Shibdas Bhaduri, in Shoojit Sircar’s next, 1911. Bhaduri is the legend who led the Mohun Bagan team and scored a victory against the British team and won the Indian Football Association (IFA) trophy in 1911.

Now, John will have to naturally look the part of the lean footballer. John, being the buff and macho hero we know him today, will have to undergo a physical transformation, a la Farhan Akhtar for Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. The difference in their physique has led John to embark on a ten month rigorous regime.

Shibdas Bhaduri‘s physique was wiry and far removed from John’s rippling muscular look. John Abraham is striving towards a more lean footballers body.

A source close to John Abraham reveals that he has already started exercising towards a footballer’s physique. “A footballer’s strength lies in his legs. John realises that and has already started working out keeping that in mind. In the process, he will lose some weight too and has already started shedding the pounds,” said our source, adding, “He has been gymming for a little over a month, he still has nine months to go. He will pull it off better than anyone can imagine.”

The film also features Ayushmann Khurrana, whose debut film was Vicky Donor in 2012. He will play Abhilash Ghosh, the player who scored the historic winning goal.

When asked, Ayushmann’s spokesperson said, “He has already achieved an extremely fit body for Dum Lagake Haisha and Bombay Fairytale. He looks fitter than ever before. 1911 will only roll towards the end of the year and if need be, closer to the time the film goes on floors, he will work on his body depending on what he’s asked to do.”

Looks like biopics of sports stars seem to really be the flavour of the season, and we can’t wait for John Abraham’s portrayal of the footballer!