KOLKATA, July 15:
India’s former captain Baichung Bhutia today disassociated with the decision of I-League Professional Football Clubs’ Association (ILPFCA) to release players only two weeks before the Nehru Gold Cup torunament beginning on August 22.
Bhutia, one of the members of the ILPFCA, said the association has been formed for the betterment of football and two weeks training for country’s preparation was not enough.
Bhutia said, “Everyone should support India’s cause for betterment of football and if the country win everyone, the clubs, the players and even media would be benefited.”
Owner of URO United Sikkim Bhutia was speaking to reporters after launching a bunch of toiletries products, said the organisation was formed for betterment of football of the country and hence joining into the Indian camp well in time would also help players to hone their skill better.
He said though he could not attend in last meeting of the ILPFCA but he was aware of the decision.
The 35-year-old Sikkimese said, “I say all should also support newly appointed AIFF’s senior coach Wim Koevermans as his experience would surely help Indian football,” Bhutia said indicating two weeks training for Indian players is not sufficient.
“Now the situation in Indian camp is changed for better and if any player comes out with injury after representing the country then it is the fault with the player and not with country,” India’s most capped striker said.
The ILPFCA’s president and Salgaocar secretary Raj Gomes in media reports said the member clubs would not release their players two weeks before the Nehru Cup tournament, scheduled to begin August 22, under the FIFA guidelines.
But the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in consultation with Koevermans called 37 players to report on July 27.
“We cannot compare ourselves with the players like in Germany, Spain and European nations as their two weeks time is enough.
“But for Indians we know that two weeks time is not enough and we need more and more training to do well in any international tournament,” Bhutia said.
Bhutia said, “Well if the clubs take part in very important tournaments like AFC, FIFA or any other international events than in that case the matter is different.”
“I being a player and owner of a club must make some contribution to the football and being part of the national side is the best opportunity one should go ahead for all round development of the game,” he stressed
Replying a question Bhutia said, “It would be tough this time to defend the title with new set of players.” He, however, reposed faith in the new coach saying his vast experience would benefit India.
Bhutia also disclosed that his United Sikkim received a boost this year roping in Kolkata based URO Group.
He said from now his United Sikkim would be known as Uro United Sikkim, which was promoted this season for premier division of I-League. (UNI)
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