– By Pratyusha Mukherjee
Q.How is the preparation of Army Red for this Durand Cup ?
We have prepared well to compete in this 131st Edition of Durand Cup. We got some matches in 1st Division of CFL and played a number of practice matches in Kolkata.
Q.Say something about the team prospect and all that..
First of all we are focusing to qualify for Quarter final stage from group C. Other 4 teams are from ISL and I league, have come with their full squad. So it will be very tough to say anything.
Q.Who are the key players?
Army Red having 4 I league players like N. Suresh, L Deepak Singh and 8 players of current 75th Santosh trophy i.e – BM Thakuri, Sunil B, Kamardeep and Liton Shil.
Q.What strategy you guys will follow at the tournament?
We always play an attacking and aggressive football, which is our natural game. Side by side strategy will be planned based on every opponent teams.
Q.Do you really think as a season opener a prestigious tournament like Durand will help to check the bench strength of your team?
Exactly, Durand Cup is becoming the best pre season competition to check the team’s strength for all.
Q. Fifa suspended AIFF over undue influence from third parties.See, Footballers in general and the young rising stars in particular will suffer a lot.As a coach what’s your reaction?
Yes, it’s a big blow to Indian Football. This suspension means we are suspended from all International events, even players transfer also. The players, clubs, National squad all will suffer especially young players. A great loss for Indian Football.
Q.Are all your team members serving personnel ?
All players and supporting staff are serving personnel of Indian Army.
INTERVIEWED BY PRATYUSHA MUKHERJEE.
( Journalist based in Kolkata. In her illustrated career she has covered many major events and achieved International and National media award for Journalism. )
