VIDEO: Wim Koevermans press conference in Trivandrum

Indian national football team coach Wim Koevermans at a press conference in the Kerala state capital Thiruvananthapuram about Baichung Bhutia being part of the technical committee, Rob Baan's Lakshya Youth Development plans and the cooperation with the I-League clubs.

Does Team India need long preparations ahead of friendlies & tournaments?

Since the end of the Group A qualifiers for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup last week in Yangon, Myanmar I have been asking myself if Team India needs longer preparations ahead of the international friendlies and tournaments.

I am saying so as it is something that former India coach Bob Houghton used to say and insists on. He was no fan of one-off international friendlies on FIFA match dates, then that meant pulling out players for two to three days from their I-League clubs with minimal to no real match preparations.

And as friendlies against Singapore (0-2) and Palestine (2-4) under Wim Koevermans have shown such a schedule does not suit the Indian national team players well.

Now the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers preparations in Pune weren't the best either as East Bengal Club and Churchill Brothers SC players had to leave the India camp to play AFC Cup matches for their clubs.

All these are factors to show what has hampered Team India lately as Bob Houghton minutely planned everything for the Nehru Cup's, AFC Challenge Cup and even the AFC Asian Cup in Qatar with long, planned camps. He even took out players from the I-League to prepare for the Asian Cup, the biggest tournament India played in years and maybe in years to come.

Therefore the above is something which needs to happen again and success will surely come...

Wim Koevermans: We could have scored ten goals!

"We had aimed for three points and we have achieved it," National Coach Wim Koevermans pronounced at the post-match Press Conference after India's 4-0 win against Guam at the Yangon Training Centre earlier today.

"We could have scored more goals but it was Guam who had the first chance of the match when one of their shots hit the post and went out," he added. "That was a wake-up call for us."

"But after that, we took control and there was hardly any threat from our opponents. If you look back at the chances which we created, we could have scored more than 10 goals. But that's football," Wim maintained.

Referring to a question whether India can beat Myanmar, Koevermans quipped, "We are here to win. I feel every team is here to win too. It will be an interesting match for sure. But we have beaten higher-ranked teams in the recent past and we take inspiration from it."

"We gave away the ball a bit too easily at times," Wim maintained coming back to the Guam match. "There was pressure on the players as this was a must-win match for us. We had our chances but just couldn't score,” Wim reiterated.

In the end India won, while Myanmar were held to a surprise one-all draw by Chinese Taipei which leaves India at the top with six points.

India Coach Wim Koevermans: We are here to win!

Indian National Coach Wim Koevermans said India are here to "win the Tournament" to make his intentions clear at the qualifiers for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup. Koevermans said this at the Official Pre-Tournament Press Conference in Yangon today.

"We aim to win every match which we play and that's no different for the AFC Challenge Cup," Koevermans said. "We have had a good Preparatory Camp for the Tournament in Pune. We landed early in Yangon to acclimatise to the conditions and the boys have responded well," he added.

"There are a lot of young players in India who have the capability to play at the highest level. This is a test for them as much it's a chance for me to assess their performance and how they react."

"Indians are very proud when it comes to the National Team. We are expected to win every match. We have a huge responsibility," he pronounced.

If the Indians have had a preparatory camp for two weeks, then their rivals in the tournament opener, Chinese Taipei head in the competition after a '40-day Camp'.

Koevermans' rival counterpart, Chinese Taipei coach Chen Kuel Jen meanwhile siad, "We have had a Preparatory Camp for 40 days and we are satisfied with the sessions. All the teams are equally strong in the Tournament. We have also spent time to learn about each of them."

"We play to a different style nowadays," Jen continued. "There are a whole lot of new players from the lot which played in the EAFF Championship in December 2012," he added. "We will try our best to qualify."

Park Sung Wha, Myanmar's South Korean Coach felt there isn't much "difference between the teams".

"This will be a tough competition for sure. There’s isn’t much difference between the sides. All the teams are equally strong and have a chance for qualifying for the final phase of the AFC Challenge Cup in Maldives in 2014."

"It doesn't necessarily mean that Myanmar will be through just by virtue of being the hosts," he went on.

For the record, the Group-toppers get a direct entry into the final phase while the two best runners-up amongst the five groups also get a place in the final round next year.

Guam Coach Gary White said, "We have studied a lot about all our opponents. History may not be on our side but we have prepared well this time around," he warned.

Guam come into the Competition with two of their players from the North American MLS while three of their players play in the Philippines League.

(Report & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

Lalkamal Bhowmick: This team isn't about a specific set of players

"Go Lalkamal go", instructs Wim Koevermans and the pace increases. His hair fluttering, the Prayag United midfielder stays omnipresent in the practice sessions. Later, in an interview to AIFF Media, Lalkamal Bhowmick spoke at length about his views on the 'much more pan-Indian squad', changes brought in by Wim Koevermans, learning to be patient and much more.


What is it like to be a part of the National squad?

It's a sense of pride as much it is an assurance that you have been awarded for your perseverance. It's also a part of your confidence building especially in a country like India. When I sit back and think about it, it gives me goose bumps. We are a vast country but now I'm among the best 23 in the country! I'm better than my neighbour; I'm better than, perhaps my best friend; I'm better than most. It's a feeling which can't be shared but felt.


Is it frustrating to sit out and wait for your debut?

Not at all! I've just broken into the squad and I know I will have to wait. I also know that sooner or later, my chance will come. There's a reason as to why I am in the squad of 23; at the same time, one needs to understand as to why I'm not yet made my debut. The Coach has certain plans for me as he has for everyone. My job is to improve as a player with his inputs and prepare myself for the moment. Life is all about a learning curve. You need to learn to be patient.


Did you find adjusting a bit tough in the National squad?

Not really! My role in my club stays the same as it is under Wim Koevermans. We play the same system. Adjustment hasn't been a problem at all. Instead, I felt much more comfortable from my first day. And as for my teammates, I know all of them as much they know me. It's not an alien land at all.


How much did the camp in Pune help?

It was very good. We have planned a lot for the AFC Challenge Cup. The Camp has helped to build up the sense of belonging and oneness among all. The team spirit is excellent. Besides, the Coach stressed on high intensity practice sessions which were backed by video analysis. It was fun and work at the same time.


How much has the National Team changed over the years?

I have noticed two distinct changes. The long-ball play has been shelved and there's a lot much emphasis on possession football. Today, it's also not all about the ball; rather, it's a whole lot about how and what you do to get it back when you don't have possession. Nowadays, we play modern football.

Moreover, it's not the same set of players in the National squad. Earlier, there weren't many or should I say, any changes. Whatever the result, the same set of players were persisted with. That isn't the case now. There are so many new faces in the squad. Perform and play, stays the new philosophy. This team isn't just about a specific set of players.


Can you elaborate?

Not long back, there was a perception that you need to represent a Big Team to play in the National team. But today if you look around, you notice players from Pailan Arrows, United Sikkim Football Club sweating it out in the Camp with the others. If you go through the squad, you'll find four players from Prayag United in the squad. That was something unheard of in Indian football not long back. There is a pan-Indian presence.

(Interview & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

Players of East Bengal & Churchill Brothers' join Team India in Myanmar

All the remaining players of the Indian senior national team have joined the rest of the squad in Yangon, Myanmar. While the Churchill Brothers players landed in Yangon late on Wednesday evening, the East Bengal players joined the squad earlier today.

While the four Churchill Brothers players – Sunil Chhetri, Sandip Nandy, Lenny Rodrigues and Denzil Franco arrived directly from Hong Kong, the three East Bengal players – Raju Gaikwad, Mehtab Hossain and Robin Singh arrived from Kolkata via Singapore. All the seven were away for their respective club commitments in the AFC Cup.

"It's nice to have them back," said national coach Wim Koevermans. "They need sufficient rest and at the same time need to acclimatise to the new time zone and recover fast," he added.

Captain Sunil Chhetri who joined Churchill Brothers on loan from Sporting Lisbon said, he's "back with more confidence".

2I got to play two matches and even scored two goals. That makes me more confident. Playing full 90 minutes in two consecutive matches that too one in the AFC Cup has added to my morale" he maintained. "This is a very important tournament for us and we can’t rest back and relax."

Mehtab Hossain, the East Bengal midfielder quipped that it "feels nice to have come back from winning an AFC Cup match".

"After a victory in our first match in the AFC Cup, we head into the AFC Challenge Cup with a lot more confidence. We are fit and raring to go," he informed.

Denzil Franco, sitting next added, "It obviously feels nice to be back in the National squad. We will give our best in the forthcoming Tournament."

All the seven players were part of a limbering session at the Yangon Training Centre, the match venue, even as the rest sweated it all over on the field.

AIFF Player-of-the-Year Syed Rahim Nabi echoed that with the seven players joining the team, the squad now stays 'complete'.

"These seven players add to our strength. We don't have much time prior to our first match against Chinese Taipei. We needed them back badly for the sessions," he pronounced.

"The National Team has always been a special place for me. It's nice to be back again. This is an important tournament in my career," East Bengal striker Robin Singh said.

India play their first match against Chinese Taipei on March 2 at the Yangon Training Centre.

(Report & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

Jeje Lalpekhlua: Koevermans has helped me improve my turning

Striker Jeje Lalpekhlua after over a year is back to 'where he belongs' - Team India. Since his ankle injury, Jeje, touted as the most exciting prospect in Indian Football, says he has seen the worst of times. In his first interview since getting a call back into the National squad, the Mizo striker speaks as length to AIFF Media about the phase which he wants to forgets fast, his immediate targets, his improvement under Wim Koevermans and much more.


How is it to be back in the National squad?

Every player sweats hard to be here. It feels nice and makes me more confident as a player that I am back in the National squad after more than a year. My ankle injury had kept me out of the AFC Challenge Cup in Nepal in March 2012 and since then it has been a battle, more within my own self to be back.

I see this as a new beginning and will work harder and wait for my chance.


How did you motivate yourself when you were hit by injury and simultaneously out of the Senior squad?

Football motivated me more than anything else. I just wanted to be back playing again for my club. More than the physical aspect, an injury hits you hard mentally as a player. You start thinking that you won't ever have the strength to be back. Serious doubts kept creeping in. But at the same time, it makes you tougher as a player as you have already seen the worst of times.


This is the first time you are in the squad under Wim Koevermans. How do you see him from close?

The first and foremost thing that will appeal to you is his nature. I'd say, as much he is a Coach, he is simultaneously a true gentleman and a very caring human being. That's an extraordinary and a very rare combination, I must say.

Technically, he has fine-tuned me a lot. He explained to me as to how I could be sharper with my turning and off-the-ball play. I like his style a lot.


What are your targets?

As a striker, I'd say to score as many goals as possible. But the AFC Challenge Cup 2014 (Qualifiers) stay the immediate target - not only for me but for the entire contingent. We are a good unit and need believe in ourselves.


You have played against Chinese Taipei and Myanmar in the recent past. What can we expect from them?

I made my Senior India debut against Chinese Taipei in the AFC Challenge Cup (qualifiers) in Malaysia in 2011. I remember scoring in the match as we won 2-1. Then, in the U-23 Olympic Qualifiers, I scored against Myanmar in Pune as we went on to win 2-1. I can tell you, both of the teams are very competitive ones and would pose a huge threat. And there's Guam too.

The Coach has shown us some videos and we need to stick to his plans!

(Interview & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

Wim Koevermans: Acclimatising fast is very important!

Keeping in mind that in Asia 'you need to travel long', National Coach Wim Koevermans insisted on arriving early in Yangon for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers. In an interview to AIFF Media, Koevermans talks about the intensity of his training sessions, challenges of acclimatisation, the couple of injuries in the Preparatory Camp, India's opening opponent in the AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers and much more.


Are you satisfied the manner the Preparatory Camp in Pune shaped up?

Very much! The boys worked hard and so did the staff. There was a reason for the Camp and we accomplished it. I need to thank the authorities in Pune for their cooperation and also the All India Football Federation for arranging for the Preparatory Camp. Things are working in the right direction and that's important.


What do you make of the players prior and after the Camp?

The players will always have to get used to the tempos of the training sessions. The sessions were of very high intensity and everyone adjusted well.

At the moment we are focusing on Chinese Taipei, our first opponent in the AFC Challenge Cup 2014 (Qualifiers). It's the first game of the Tournament and a really important one for us. We are providing them the information and they are learning about them.


How much have the couple of injuries (to Arnab Mondal and Sandesh Jhingan) in the Preparatory Camp affected your plans?

Unfortunately injuries are always a part of any training camp, anywhere in the World. They were freak ones but we need to move on. That's the reason we had called for a bigger group of players. Even after Sandesh (Jhingan) was ruled out, we called for an extra defender (Rowilson Rodrigues) to ensure we had enough quality players for the Tournament.


India are the first team to have landed in Yangon. How much is acclimatisation important in such a Tournament?

I'd say, most important! The idea stays to get enough rest to overcome and adjust after the hectic travel schedules. Travelling is tiring and takes its toll, especially if you travel to a different time zone; and one needs to remember that in Asia, you need to travel long. Hence, acclimatisation is important. We need to get it out of system. The boys have adjusted superbly so far and we even had a light practice session on the first afternoon.

However, having said that, the boys from Churchill Brothers and East Bengal couldn't arrive together with the Group, courtesy the AFC Cup schedule. They need to recover fast and stay fresh.


You have had a look at the Videos – what do you make of your opponents?

We take every opposition seriously. In a build-up to a match, we need to analyse our rival teams and stay 100 percent prepared. We need to see the players, their qualities, their strengths and weaknesses and prepare accordingly.

(Interview & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

AFC Cup: Churchill Brothers name squad for opening match

I-League side Churchill Brothers SC, who replaced champions Dempo SC in the tournament, have named their 18 players squad for their opening AFC Cup match against Kitchee SC from Hongkong. The Red Machines play their opening Group E match on Tuesday, February 27 evening at the Mongkok Stadium in Hong Kong.

The Goans would be missing Brazilian Roberto Mendes Silva, but welcome back four India players – Sandip Nandy, Denzil Franco, Lenny Rodrigues and Sunil Chhetri – who have been released by national coach Wim Koevermans for the match.


Churchill Brothers SC

Goalkeepers
Sandip Nandy, Felix D'Souza

Defenders
Denzil Franco, Yumnam Raju Mangang, Sudhakaran Naveen Kumar, Dharmaraj Ravanan, Lamine Tamba, Thangjam Saran Singh

Midfielders
Steven Benedic Dias, Lenny Rodrigues, Bikramjit Singh, Jaison Vales, Sanjay Balmachu, W. Tomba Singh, Amandeep Singh

Forwards
Sunil Chhetri, Henry Arnaud Antchouet Rebienot, T. Bineesh Balan

Officials
Mariano Dias (Head Coach), Danzie Ferrao (Manager), Anup Kumar Yadav (Physio), Watson Fernandes (Media Manager)

India coach Koevermans names squad of 23 players for 2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers

Indian national team coach Wim Koevermans has named his final 23 players squad ahead of the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers to be played next month in Myanmar.

Team India have been drawn in Group A of the qualifiers alongside the hosts Myanmar, Chinese Taipei and Guam with Chinese Taipei the opponent in the first match on March 2.

The squad would be leaving Mumbai late on Monday, February 25 evening and reach Yangon the next day morning. However, the four Churchill Brothers players – Sandip Nandy, Denzil Franco, Lenny Rodrigues and Sunil Chhetri – who would be doing duty for their club in the AFC Cup would be joining the rest of squad on February 27; while the three East Bengal players - Raju Gaikwad, Mehtab Hossain and Robin Singh - would be joining the squad on February 28 in Yangon.

Those omitted from the final squad include Subhasish Roy Chowdhury (Dempo SC), Peter Carvalho (Dempo SC), Asif K. (Prayag United SC), Shylo Malswam Tulunga (Prayag United SC) and Sushil Kumar Singh (Shillong Lajong FC); while Sandesh Jhingan (United Sikkim FC), Arnab Mondal (East Bengal Club) and Joaquim Abranches (Dempo SC) had to leave the camp due to injury.

Meanwhile Karanjit Singh, Jeje Lalpekhlua and Rowilson Rodrigues make a comeback into the squad.


INDIA

Goalkeepers
Sandip Nandy (Churchill Brothers SC), Subrata Pal (Prayag United SC), Karanjit Singh (Salgaocar FC)

Defenders
Nirmal Chettri (Mohun Bagan AC), Raju Eknath Gaikwad (East Bengal Club), Denzil Franco (Churchill Brothers SC), Souvik Ghosh (Pailan Arrows), Syed Rahim Nabi (Mohun Bagan AC), Rowilson Rodrigues (Dempo SC), Gouramangi Moirangthem Singh (Prayag United SC), Gurjinder Kumar Singh (Pune FC)

Midfielders
Izumi Arata (Pune FC), Lalkamal Bhowmick (Prayag United SC), Francis Fernandes (Salgaocar FC), Alwyn George (Pailan Arrows), Mehtab Hossain (East Bengal Club), Clifford Miranda (Dempo SC), Jewel Raja Sheikh (Mohun Bagan AC), Lenny Rodrigues (Churchill Brothers SC), C.K. Vineeth (Prayag United SC)

Forwards
Sunil Chhetri (Churchill Brothers SC), Jeje Lalpekhlua (Pune FC), Robin Singh (East Bengal Club)

Officials
Wim Koevermans (Head Coach), Savio Medeira (Assistant Coach), Marcus Pacheco (Goalkeeping Coach)

Koevermans names 30 probables for AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers camp

Indian national coach Wim Koevermans has named 30 probables for the Preparatory Camp ahead of the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers to be played next month in Myanmar. The Camp will kick-off at the Bharatiya Vidyapeeth premises in Pune from Tuesday, February 12.

All the selected players and support staff would be reporting to the Camp the previous day ahead of the camp.

Wim Koevermans has left out East Bengal striker Manandeep Singh, while calling-up Sandesh Jhingan (United Sikkim FC), Arnab Mondal (East Bengal Club), Peter Carvalho (Dempo SC), Asif K. (Prayag United SC), Shylo Malswam Tulunga (Prayag United SC), Jeje Lalpekhlua (Pune FC) and Robin Singh (East Bengal Club) to the camp.

A surprise omission remains an inform Lalrindika Ralte, who once under Koevermans does not find a place in the squad.

The team will be travelling to play the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers in Yangon in the last week of February. India play their first match against Chinese Taipei on March 2 followed by matches against Guam and hosts Myanmar on March 4 and 6 respectively.


INDIA

Goalkeepers
Sandip Nandy (Churchill Brothers SC), Subrata Pal (Prayag United SC), Subhasish Roy Chowdhury (Dempo SC), Karanjit Singh (Salgaocar FC)

Defenders
Nirmal Chettri (Mohun Bagan AC), Raju Eknath Gaikwad (East Bengal Club), Denzil Franco (Churchill Brothers SC), Souvik Ghosh (Pailan Arrows), Sandesh Jhingan (United Sikkim FC), Arnab Mondal (East Bengal Club), Syed Rahim Nabi (Mohun Bagan AC), Gouramangi Moirangthem Singh (Prayag United SC), Gurjinder Kumar Singh (Pune FC)

Midfielders
Izumi Arata (Pune FC), Lalkamal Bhowmick (Prayag United SC), Peter Carvalho (Dempo SC), Francis Fernandes (Salgaocar SC), Alwyn George (Pailan Arrows), Mehtab Hossain (East Bengal Club), Asif K. (Prayag United SC), Clifford Miranda (Dempo SC), Jewel Raja Sheikh (Mohun Bagan AC), Lenny Rodrigues (Churchill Brothers SC), Shylo Malswam Tulunga (Prayag United SC), C.K. Vineeth (Prayag United SC)

Forwards
Joaquim Abranches (Dempo SC), Sunil Chhetri (Sporting Clube de Portugal 'B'), Jeje Lalpekhlua (Pune FC), Robin Singh (East Bengal Club), Sushil Kumar Singh (Shillong Lajong FC)

Officials
Wim Koevermans (Head Coach), Savio Medeira (Assistant Coach), Marcus Pacheco (Goalkeeping Coach)

Help each other on the field, stresses Koevermans

"We have some new faces in the squad. All of them please step forward," Wim Koevermans pronounced in the team meeting. Sandip Nandy, Lalkamal Bhowmick, Izumi Arata, Shouvik Ghosh, C.K. Vineeth and Gurjinder Kumar Singh obeyed the orders. And then, they were asked to sing the National Anthem. They obeyed orders again, even Arata. The rest stood up from their chairs.

"You belong to the National Team. The pride and passion of representing your country is what you have to feel for yourselves," Koevermans added. "But at the same time, you need to conceive the tempo of International Football. It's played at very high intensity," Koevermans, who coached India to triumph in the 2012 Nehru Cup, added.

Every day, early morning when most, prefer to snooze under the blankets, Koevermans, has sweat all over him. On his return from the gym, he's omnipresent. He checks every minute detail, queries about rest taken by the players, their massage, niggles (if any), sips a coffee or two and then, scribbles on his notepad. In between, he walks up to his tactic board, moves his magnets and comes back to have a sip at the coffee.

"Palestine look a very competent side," he maintains during the pre-match Press Conference. "Nine of their players who had done duty in the West Asia Cup in December 2012 are in the squad. We have watched them in videos and they are a powerful side."

"It will be an interesting match for sure."

Jamal Mahmoud Abed Mahmoud Pass, the Palestine Coach, smiles. "India are a capable side. We are happy to be in India," he maintains. "It will be an interesting match," he complements Koevermans.

Thirty minutes later, Koevermans is back to his drawing board again. "Don't switch off during training. We were together for five weeks for the Nehru Cup. This time, you need to peak within two practice sessions. That's the challenge of an International Friendly," he urged to his players.

"Teamwork is very important. Help each other. The transition to defend stays most significant. It's not only about what you do with the ball but what you do when you don't have it," he stresses. "Defending is helping each other." The boys listen and then nod.

You see the boys sitting together and discussing it among themselves. There's Captain Sunil Chhetri, current AIFF Player-of-the-Year Syed Rahim Nabi, Mehtab Hossain, Gouramangi Singh, Clifford Miranda, amongst others.

"It's an important match for us," Gouramangi echoes. "We need to be on our toes," Subrata adds. "There isn't room for any slip-ups."

"No challenge on the ground is easy. It's up to the team to rise to the occasion; we have to. We have done it in the past. The Coach has enlightened us on a few points and we are ready," Mehtab Hossain says in one breath.

The entire squad, including Koevermans himself, stays aware of the football tradition of the State. "I've heard about I.M. Vijayan and Joe Paul Ancheri," Koevermans quips. And even as local lad C.K. Vineeth impresses all in the strenuous practice sessions, Koevermans expects a full House at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi tomorrow night.

The kick-off is at 6.30pm and the match will be telecast live on Ten Action.

(Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

Sandip Nandy: Team atmosphere has changed a lot

Even as a determined keeper Sandip Nandy made his comeback into the National squad, Subrata Pal mentioned that Nandy has 'set a new benchmark for goalkeeping in India'. In a chat with AIFF Media, Nandy speaks at length about his complacency which cost him his place from the side, the change in National Team atmosphere, his 'inspiration' Subrata Pal and much more.


You are back to where you once belonged. How do you see it?

I have won my battle – the battle which one has with oneself. I admit I was a bit too casual in between and had become complacent. That cost me my place in the National squad. Furthermore, a spate of injuries never helped my cause. I felt bad. I was'’t getting younger any day and the only recipe stayed hard work.

I worked upon my fitness and regained my side in my club teams. I didn't have any specific target in mind. I need to thank Coach Wim Koevermans for giving me a chance. It's now my turn to pay him back. I just can't let him down.


Has the atmosphere in the National squad changed since you last played?

The difference is there for all to see. Wim Koevermans is a very strict disciplinarian as much he is a good human being and a superb tactician. But there are certain set of rules laid down for everyone off the field.

Unless you are disciplined off the field, it will never boil down to your performance. That wasn't the case earlier as all were left alone after practice. But now we have a Coach who is like a Friend, Philosopher and Guide to all. He's talking to you, asking you about your needs, easting with you, travelling with you. All these will have its positive impact and that's what has happened.

You see all moving around as a team as Koevermans stresses on 'teamwork' a lot. There aren't any complaints from the players. They are enjoying it and that's important.


How much is it difficult to adjust with younger goalkeepers like Subrata Pal and Subhashish Roy Chowdhury?

Not at all. It was not without reason that Subrata Pal was dubbed as the 'Spiderman'. After the 2006 Asian Games when I felt I had reached my peak, I became complacent. I wasn't staying serious during practice and started to compromise. Hence, I was punished. Subrata seized the opportunity by his hard work, discipline and performance. That's a lesson which I have learnt…

Nandy couldn’t finish the sentence when Subrata and Subhashish entered. And then the trio sat down.

Subrata added, "Sandip-da has always been my idol. I'm not saying this as he is sitting next to me. I have always looked up to him," he said.

Subhasish added, "I remember when I was an India U-19 goalkeeper and we were camping in Goa as were the then Senior Team squad. I had sneaked into the Hotel just to click a picture of his. I had approached his brother to ask him to pose with us. It was my prized possession," he recollects, as everyone bursts into laughter.

"I was at the ground on the day when Sandip-da announced his arrival. He was playing for Sonali Shibir at that time," Subrata goes on.

"You know, he has redefined the art of goalkeeping in our country. He still inspires me. Look at the manner he has made his comeback. In the last seven days, he has prompted me to believe that goalkeepers can play even beyond 40," Subrata pronounces.

Sandip jokes, "Come on, I haven't turned 40 as yet;" and we turn to Sandip again.


Is age ever a problem for a goalkeeper?

I don't think it is. At least, it hasn't been for me. The urge from within is still the same as it was ten years back. Age helps a goalkeeper to mature but has its constraints at the same time. I needed to take work on maintaining my reflexes.

Even if you look around, you'll find Jens Lehmann, Oliver Kahn, Brad Friedel, Edwin van der Sar have donned the gloves around 40. What more, Dino Zoff even won the World Cup at 40 in 1982!


Does it pertain only for goalkeepers?

I always tell the new generation to live a disciplined life. Once you have money and get all the adulation, that too at the age of 21, many a talent fades out. That's where a footballer needs to be smart. You can never be diverted by the attractions of life or should I say the vices of life.

What irritates me is when someone doesn't take his practice sessions seriously. I tell them my story. From No. 1 in the country I was replaced in no time.


What next for Sandip Nandy?

I have learnt a lot from Subrata and am still learning from him. You need to share your experience as well as gain it from others. As a goalkeeper I need to be flexible both physically and mentally. As long I'm able to do it, I'm happy and relieved.

(Interview & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

VIDEO: Team India training at Kochi

Here the report from Indiavision on Team India training on Sunday in Kochi ahead of the international friendly against Palestine on Wednesday, February 6. The report involves statements from AIFF Player of the Year Syed Rahim Nabi and newcomer C.K. Vineeth.

VIDEO: Team India arriving in Kochi for Palestine friendly

Here the report from Indiavision on Team India arriving over the weekend in Kochi for the international friendly against Palestine on Wednesday, February 6. The report involves statements from Wim Koevermans and Sunil Chhetri.

Wim Koevermans: We cannot break the team dynamics

Indian national football coach Wim Koevermans has brought in a number of new faces for India's international friendly against Palestine. In a freewheeling interview with AIFF Media, Koevermans, who coached India to triumph in the Nehru Cup spoke at length about his 'shadow team', his assessment of Palestine, his squad of 23 and much more.


How do you describe the significance of the international friendly against Palestine?

Every game is important for the National Team. We want to gain as much experience as possible and improve ourselves at the same time. Unless you improve, you won't step up the ladder in FIFA Rankings.


How much will this Friendly help in preparation for the AFC Challenge Cup Qualifiers?

It's an opportunity to see players and gauge their present form. At the same time, there are a few players who don't play that often (at their clubs in the I-League) and I intend to have a close look at them too. Hence, the friendly will help me make my choices. It's an important test for some players, a very important one.

Obviously prior to the AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers, we will have a Training Camp in Pune where we will spend over two weeks on the training pitch.


Have you had a look at Palestine?

I have watched videos of them and that has given me a good idea about their team. They are a very strong side. In December 2012, they had played the West Asia Cup where they beat Lebanon and went down narrowly to Oman and Kuwait by an identical 1-2 margin. Some of their players even play in tough competitive leagues outside Palestine.


You have travelled all over the country to spot players (from the I-League). Are you satisfied with your 'shadow team'?

We just can't break the dynamics of the team especially after the foundation which we laid in the Nehru Cup. We need to sustain that. But in the I-League we have watched a lot of players to cover some positions. I may bring in some new faces in the Pune Camp if needed.


There are some new faces whom you have summoned to the National squad. What message does it send to all?

Good performance will always get rewarded and along with it, consistency. As I said, we have invited quite a few players who don't play that often. But it doesn't end there. We need to remember that they have the quality in themselves which makes them eligible to play at the highest level.


Do you ever feel age can be a constraint for any player?

You need to find the right mix. I will never compromise on quality. If a young boy displays quality on the turf, he will get a chance for sure. And once you get it, you need to perform. The same theory implies for everyone else.

(Interview & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

First batch of Team India players arrive in Kochi

The first batch of the Team Indian players including head coach Wim Koevermans, captain Sunil Chhetri and current AIFF Player-of-the-Year Syed Rahim Nabi arrived in Kochi on today ahead of India's international friendly against Palestine scheduled to be played on Wednesday, February 6.

Among other players, Sandip Nandy, Lenny Rodrigues, Denzil Franco, Nirmal Chhetri and Jewel Raja Sheikh also arrived as did assistant coach Savio Medeira and the teams support staff. The remaining members of the squad will be joining the team tomorrow.

Chhetri, Nabi, Jewel and Nirmal Chhetri were even part of a limbering session at the majestic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in the late afternoon.

"It's a wonderful feeling for any Coach to see his boys assembling again. They head into Kochi straight from the I-League and we intend to make use of the next few days ahead of our match against Palestine," Koevermans said.

Chhetri who landed in New Delhi on Friday afternoon from Portugal looked fresh despite having travelled 'almost half of the World' in the last 24 hours.

"I'm back in my country and this time I'm in 'God’s Own Country'," he smiled as he referred to Kerala. "The State has a huge fan following for the sport and has produced so many wonderful players over the years." he uttered. "I expect a huge football loving crowd cheering us against Palestine on the 6th."

"It's exciting to meet my teammates once again. Obviously we cross our paths in the I-League every week but the National Camp is above everything," Nabi maintained. "Expectations run high after our Nehru Cup triumph and we are looking forward for the match against Palestine," he added. "And you only get to meet Sunil in the National Camp," he joked as everyone burst into a hearty laugh.

"I've heard about the football tradition of Kerala," Koevermans uttered. "I've been told about the football exploits of the 'Black Pearl' I.M. Vijayan, and Joe Paul Ancheri," he informed.

Goalkeeper Sandip Nandy, who has been summoned for the Friendly said 'the call has served as the biggest motivation for him'.

"This is perhaps the biggest motivation a player can ever ask for. I had been working hard and will be working harder from now on. I had never lost my self belief and it's heartening that good performances are being rewarded. I need to thank Koevermans for that," Sandip opined.

The practice session tomorrow will kick-off at 5pm at the Nehru Stadium.

(Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

Wim Koevermans names 23 players squad for Palestine friendly in Kochi

Team India coach Wim Koevermans has named his 23 players squad for the international friendly against Palestine on Wednesday, February 6 to be played at the Nehru Stadium in Kochi.

Koevermans, under whom India had won the 2012 Nehru Cup, maintained it's a very important match for India. "We need to assess ourselves. We need more such matches," Wim told Aiff Media.

Captain Sunil Chhetri, who plays for Sporting Clube de Portugal 'B', added, "Unless you play International Friendlies you cannot gauge where you stand. We stay grateful to AIFF for arranging the match."

"The passion for the sport in the Kerala stays unparallel and we expect a full house cheering for us against Palestine," Sunil further stated.

Koevermans has been travelling across India to watch as many I-League matches as possible to name his squad for the friendly. Interestingly seasoned Sandip Nandy makes a comeback in the squad as does Lalkamal Bhowmick, while 'Player of Indian origin' Izumi Arata gets his first call-up as does winger C.K. Vineeth.

Meanwhile Koevermans has named 14 stand-byes in-case any of his 20 players called-up get injured and can be replaced ahead of the friendly.

The squad will assemble in Kochi on Sunday, February 3 ahead of the match after their I-League engagements.


INDIA

Goalkeepers
Sandip Nandy (Churchill Brothers SC), Subrata Pal (Prayag United SC), Karanjit Singh (Salgaocar FC)

Defenders
Nirmal Chettri (Mohun Bagan AC), Raju Eknath Gaikwad (East Bengal Club), Denzil Franco (Churchill Brothers SC), Souvik Ghosh (Pailan Arrows), Syed Rahim Nabi (Mohun Bagan AC), Gouramangi Moirangthem Singh (Prayag United SC), Gurjinder Kumar Singh (Pune FC)

Midfielders
Izumi Arata (Pune FC), Lalkamal Bhowmick (Prayag United SC), Francis Fernandes (Salgaocar SC), Alwyn George (Pailan Arrows), Mehtab Hossain (East Bengal Club), Clifford Miranda (Dempo SC), Anthony Pereira (Dempo SC), Jewel Raja Sheikh (Mohun Bagan AC), Lenny Rodrigues (Churchill Brothers SC), C.K. Vineeth (Prayag United SC)

Forwards
Sunil Chhetri (Sporting Clube de Portugal 'B'), Manandeep Singh (East Bengal Club), Sushil Kumar Singh (Shillong Lajong FC)

Stand-Byes
Subhasish Roy Chowdhury (Dempo SC), L. Dhanachandra Singh (Prayag United SC), Sandesh Jhingan (United Sikkim FC), Arnab Mondal (East Bengal Club), Gurwinder Singh (East Bengal Club), Shylo Malswam Tulunga (Prayag United SC), Rocus Lamare (Salgaocar FC), Lalrindika Ralte (East Bengal Club), Peter Carvalho (Dempo SC), W. Tomba Singh (Churchill Brothers SC), Asif K. (Prayag United SC), Joaquim Abranches (Dempo SC), Robin Singh (East Bengal Club), Jeje Lalpekhlua (Pune FC),

Officials
Wim Koevermans (Head Coach), Savio Medeira (Assistant Coach), Marcus Pacheco (Goalkeeping Coach)

VIDEO: Wim Koevermans talks to PFCTV!

Pune FC's PFCTV spoke to Indian national coach Wim Koevermans after Friday's I-League game between Pune FC and East Bengal Club. He spoke about PFC, their stadium, training facilities and youth development program.

Koevermans names India probables for Singapore friendly

Indian national football team Coach Wim Koevermans has named 31 probables for India's international friendly against Singapore scheduled on October 16 in Singapore. The final list of 20 players would be announced after the opening round of the I-League.

Koevermans has called-up all 20 players who were part of the 2012 Nehru Cup winning squad besides calling-up numerous players who had been part of the Nehru Cup probables. The surprise additions have been Air India defensive duo of Prateek Chowdhary and Mohanraj Pradeep.


INDIA Probables

Goalkeepers
Arindam Bhattacharya (Mohun Bagan AC), Subrata Pal (Prayag United SC), Subhasish Roy Chowdhury (Dempo SC), Karanjit Singh (Salgaocar SC)

Defenders
Nirmal Chettri (Mohun Bagan AC), Prateek Chowdhary (Air India), Denzil Franco (Churchill Brothers SC), Raju Eknath Gaikwad (East Bengal Club), Souvik Ghosh (Pailan Arrows), Nallappan Mohanraj (Pune FC), Syed Rahim Nabi (Mohun Bagan AC), Mohanraj Pradeep (Air India), Gouramangi Moirangthem Singh (Prayag United SC), Gurwinder Singh (East Bengal Club), Irungbam Khelemba Singh (Mohun Bagan AC)

Midfielders
Francis Fernandes (Salgaocar SC), Romeo Fernandes (Dempo SC), Alwyn George (Pailan Arrows), Mehtab Hossain (East Bengal Club), Rocus Lamare (Salgaocar SC), Clifford Miranda (Dempo SC), Anthony Pereira (Dempo SC), Sanju Pradhan (East Bengal Club), Jewel Raja Sheikh (Mohun Bagan AC), Lalrindika Ralte (East Bengal Club), Lenny Rodrigues (Churchill Brothers SC)

Forwards
Joaquim Abranches (Dempo SC), Sunil Chhetri (Sporting Clube de Portugal 'B'), Jeje Lalpekhlua (Pune FC), Manandeep Singh (East Bengal Club), Robin Singh (East Bengal Club)

Officials
Wim Koevermans (Head Coach), Savio Medeira (Assistant Coach), Marcus Pacheco (Goalkeeping Coach)