A new ball game

 

How has it been under the new coach?

Good. First we worked on our fitness and then on the game. We now understand what the coach wants. Initially it was a tad difficult.

What difference did you find between Bob Houghton and Armando Colaco?

The style is different but at the end of the day what they want is success. We all want India to win. Armando is one of the best coaches we’ve had and the result speaks for itself. There is a particular style  he wants us to adopt. It is easy for the Dempo players and for me as well. It is good that the other players too have grasped the essentials.

How’s the dressing room atmosphere?

It is wonderful. The players are getting along very well. There is some amazing talent in here.

How do you feel playing without Baichung Bhutia in the Indian team?

Ah! It’s tough. I’ve been playing with him for the last seven years. I played with Abhishek and Deepak Mondal. They, too, were amazing but we have to look beyond individuals. It is a good opportunity for the juniors to step up and prove their mettle.

Post-Asian Cup, your partnership with Jeje Lalpekhlua has been the talk of the town. How would you describe Jeje?

When I first came to the national team, Baichung  guided me and it helped me mature quickly. I feel Jeje is already a mature guy. He has a physical presence and can hold the ball, which enables me to make my runs. His shielding of the ball is excellent and that makes my job easier.

What’s your take on the India juniors – the U-20 boys who are at the camp? Do you feel Indian football is in safe hands?

I don’t feel they are ‘juniors’ at all. If you play them in the first XI, it won’t make much of a difference. I feel they have already arrived. Jewel (Raja), Shilton (D’Silva), Raju (Gaikwad), Jeje (Lalpekhlua) and Dika (Lalrindika Ralte) are talented and have the right attitude. With such a pool, it makes the coach’s job so much easier. He is spoilt for choice.

The last time India played UAE, the result fell short of expectations. Can India turn the tables on UAE this time?

The last time, we were hit by injuries and eight players had to sit out. I’m praying that we are injury-free when we play them on July 23. It all boils down to converting your chances.

You’ve seen both European and Indian football up close. What are the principal differences?

Lots. The facilities they provide, the dressing room, the doping agency and the way they take care of the players, everything is very professional. I am not going to say we are not good. We are improving but we are still far behind.

What basic changes do we need?

A number of things. First, there should more grounds and stadiums where family, friends and female companions can come and watch football matches. More importantly, there should be a lot more matches.

What would be your message to young footballers?

They should love the game with all their heart. Passion is the key.