ISL 2017: Sunil Chhetri fit to play Jamshedpur FC match despite limping off after loss to Chennaiyin FC
What's the Story?
Bengaluru FC suffered their second defeat of ISL 2017 as they lost 2-1 to Chennaiyin FC in what was a very closely contested game with Chennaiyin FC clutching the game in the 88th minute. Sunil Chhetri was the lone goal scorer for Bengaluru FC. What worried Bengaluru FC fans was the fact that Chetri was seen limping off towards the team bus.
The injury to Chhetri didn't look good and this was a huge concern for BFC as he has been one of their best players over the years. Bengaluru FC are set to face Jamshedpur FC on Thursday as they look to maintain their grip on top of the table.
In case you didn't know...
Sunil Chhetri is 33rd in the list of men's footballers with 50 goals or more for their country. The India captain has scored 56 goals for his country, just 5 behind Leo Messi's tally of 61 goals.
Heart of the Matter
The injury suffered by Chhetri looked bad and it was his participation in the game against Jamshedpur FC that was said to be in doubt. There has however been a turnaround in the scenario, as Sunil Chhetri is set to play against Jamshedpur FC.
Sources close to Bengaluru FC told Sportskeeda that, Chhetri's injury is not as serious, and that the Indian national team captain has recovered from his knock, and has resumed his training in full flow.
Although he has not been at the top of his form this season, Bengaluru FC fans will be relieved that Chhetri will be playing against a stubborn Jamshedpur FC defence.
What's next?
As Bengaluru FC prepare to face Jamshedpur, they need to keep in mind that the gap at the top of the leaderboard is very thin with three clubs tied at 12 points each. Bengaluru FC cannot afford to slip up, as FC Goa and Chennaiyin FC will be right there to take advantage and leave them behind.
Author's opinion
Sunil Chhetri's injury scare big ruled out is a huge boost for BFC. However, it might be in the best interests of both the player and the club to play Chettri for 50-60 mins, rather than the entire game.
The fitness of a player should be of utmost importance and BFC cannot afford a long-term injury at any cost, especially for a player like Chhetri.