A personal Interview with Renedy Singh

I have known Indian international medio Potsangbam Renedy Singh for over a decade now since we first met while with the national team then and over the years we have become really good friends, but never over these years have I interviewed him though getting his statements. It is somewhat strange, but I always have kept private and work separate not to threaten our friendship. But yesterday I got a chance to speak to him about the Asian Cup, United Sikkim and our friend Vikash Dhorasoo.


So how was the 2011 AFC Asian Cup?

The Asian Cup was the best thing that happened to me in my international football career. It was a great experience, then we hardly get the chance to play against such strong teams like Australia, South Korea and Bahrain.


Unhappy that your great goal against Bahrain not credited to your name?

It would have been nice, but it goes in Sunil's (Chhetri) name so it isn't a problem for me. In the end it is a team game.


How was it to be away for so long from home for the Asian Cup preparations?

I have said again and again that the last eight months were best of my life, then everyday training under Bob Houghton is a challenge and I did not want to miss training on even one day. We, the players, enjoy his training so much.
And I wish we could enjoy the same kind of training and atmosphere at our clubs, then it would make things much easier for the players.
And I would have hoped we would have received such training about 10 to 12 years back when I was younger, so I could have developed more as a footballer.


You have joined United Sikkim FC. What does it mean for you to play for Baichung's club?

At this moment of my career, after having a great time and experience with Team India I am spending at least three months with United Sikkim to help them get into the I-League. It will be nice if I can help them, but if not then I would have to see what happens next season.
We need at least one team from the Northeast in the I-League! And I hope it is United Sikkim next year.

In terms of exposure the Northeastern teams have been sadly neglected. And football is so big in the Northeast, but the fans can rarely watch the best teams from across India. It would be great thing if we could qualify.


You have been named United Sikkim captain. Any added pressure?

(laughs) No added pressure. But I have to give my 100% best. My team mates who look up to me will hopefully try to do the same.


You know former France international Vikash Dhorasoo from before. How was it to be able to show him Kolkata?

It was great to meet him again!
Last time in Delhi (April 2009) we only had a day together - playing a charity game and then dinner in the evening.

So I was happy that he came down to Kolkata this time around.
And what I like about Vikash is that he is so down to earth and a chillout guy. He is always smiling, I feel with him like being with by India team mates.
I would expect players of his level to be arrogant, not to communicate and not really interested. But Vikash is totally different as he not only was nice to me, but also to my friends and fellow Indian footballers. So I hope to meet him again soon.