Atletico de Kolkata front-runners, could defend ISL title: Baichung Bhutia
With the second edition of the Indian Super League (ISL) less than 10 days away, veteran Indian footballer Baichung Bhutia believes Atletico de Kolkata is still the team to beat this year. Speaking at the Calcutta Sports Journalists club, during a press conference, Bhutia said, “Most of the teams have signed some good players, but ATK’s attack and defence seem the most balanced.
“They are definite front runners to lift the title.” Currently working as a consultant for the Kolkata-based franchise, Bhutia added, “I also personally like the Chennaiyin FC and Mumbai FC squads, they look pretty balanced as well.”
The 38-year old also heavily emphasised on how Atletico have bolstered their attacking line-up this year. He stated, “The addition of Ian Hume and Helder Postiga has really upped our attacking game. Yes, last season, our attack was very good, likes of Fikru and Rafique played really well, but the new attacking line will do much better.”
“Critics heavily doubted Atletico’s attacking potency during the second half of last season,” he added. “Rest assured, with the new set of foreign players, we will get to see a really exciting season.”
Indian juniors preparing well for the U17 World Cup: Bhutia
Bhutia was also quick to point out the achievements of the Indian U-16 team, he said, “It’s great to see how well they are doing, and we should give them full credit as they qualified solely on their merit.
“We have to make sure these boys are given the correct exposure so that they can be groomed into world class players. Their performances against both Bahrain and Lebanon highlighted that they are preparing really well for the U-17 World Cup.”
India registered two victories and one loss during the 2016 U-16 AFC Cup qualifiers, defeating Bahrain 5-0 and Lebanon 6-0. However, India would have automatically qualified for the tournament as hosts, but they still managed to do it on their merit. Their spot has been given to Nepal, who finished second in Group B.
Indian coach Stephen Constantine needs time: Bhutia
Bhutia was also quick to point out that new Indian coach Stephen Constantine should be given time.
“Of course the result wasn’t in our favour, but we need to give him much more time,” he said. “Have a look at the average age of the Indian team now, it’s around 24-25, it’s a new environment, where both the boys and Constantine need to settle down.
“We must also look at players, who are doing well in state-based leagues, they just might add another facet to the national team.”
Speaking on the ISL-I-league merger, Bhutia said, “Right now the I-league is not even close to what it should be for it to be merged with the ISL. We need to get the I-league to the point of ISL and then even think of merging both.”