Bengaluru FC coach: Sunil Chhetri sets an example for others to follow
The opportunity to create a bit of history for themselves is inspiring new I-League outfit Bengaluru FC’s head coach Ashley Westwood.
In a freewheeling interview to AIFF Media, the former Manchester United youth player spoke on their pre-season, pros and cons of starting with a new club, on the forthcoming I-League, and on Indian national team captain Sunil Chhetri.
How is the Pre-Season going?
Ashley Westwood: It’s been going very well. All the players are enjoying the training and applying themselves in a professional manner. We’ve shown some real improvement, especially with fitness.
What are the pros and cons of taking over a new club?
AW: There is always a big scope for improvement. There’s no history at the club and hence, we are not competing against any of the previous teams that have won laurels. We have a chance to create a bit of history and name for ourselves.
At the same time, as it’s a new club, everything needs to be built from scratch.
What prompted you to come to India?
AW: JSW’s plans and ambition for the future prompted me to take up this job. I spoke to the owners and liked their proposal.
How much of an idea do you have about I-League?
AW: When I first got approached I didn’t really have much of an idea about the I-League. But I’m a fast learner and I’m taking my research very seriously. The two months since I first spoke to the owners, my knowledge has improved vastly.
You have the Indian captain Sunil Chhetri in your squad. What’s your take on him?
AW: He’s one of the most talented Indian players on the field. He also brings a lot to a football club in the fact that he is a good leader, very professional around the place and a great example for the other players to follow.
What are your plans for the upcoming season?
AW: We want to bring a professional, well-disciplined and organised team to the I-League who want to play football the correct way and set some high standards for the rest of the league.
Are you happy with the squad at your disposal?
AW: Yes, we’ve put together a well-balanced squad with the flexibility to add three or four more players in the areas that we feel we may need a bit more strength in depth.
What kind of finish are you looking at in the first season?
We aim to improve on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. Bengaluru FC are a new club and we want to build some solid foundations that will stand us in good stead for the long term.