Need I-League matches in more regions: Bhutia

HYDERABAD: Bhaichung Bhutia  said the closure of JCT football club was a big blow to Indian football and also feared if Chirag Computers, the new majority stakeholders of Viva Kerala is shifted to Kolkata, then the world’s most popular game will be played only in Goa and West Bengal. “Then the  majority of I-League matches would be played only in Goa and West Bengal. That does not help in the development of sport,” said Bhutia, who was in the city for inauguration of sports medicine centre on Sunday.

Bhutia, the former Indian captain, urged All India Football Federation to take I-League  to more regions. “If AIFF (All India Football Federation) wants to improve football in India, which I am sure they are doing, I-League has

to be taken to more regions. Out of 14 teams in the 2010-11 season, 6 were from Goa and Kolkata. And most of the upcoming clubs are also from those regions. It is not a good sign,” he pointed out. Bhutia, who has been ignored by the new national coach Armando Colaco, said the decision of dropping senior players for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers (away match on July 23 and home leg on July 28) against UAE, was not right.

“Including youngsters is important. But dropping most of the seniors for such an important match is not the way,” said Bhutia, adding, “Youngsters should fight for the place and get it based on their performance.”

Bhutia hit out at coach Colaco, saying how many youngsters have got the chance in Dempo under Colaco. He said: “Thanks to Indian Arrows they have players like Jeje Lalpekhlua coming up, but what would happen if he goes to some other club? Will he still get the opportunity there?” he questioned.