Chhetri provides the spark

In 2008,Chhetri was with the same bunch at the same venue,but his concentration was directed more towards the SAFF Cup camp,rather than the preparations for football’s national championships. A year later,a chance of playing with the Indian striker is keeping his Delhi team mates on their toes and Delhi coach Surinder Kumar is having brief competitive sessions every day. “After his (Chhetri’s) arrival,the competition levels have increased. Everybody is keen to find his name in the same team which features him,” says Kumar.

Chances,despite Chhetri’s eagerness,hang in the balance. But the coach is ready to take a half-fit Chhetri. “I know he is not totally fit,but I would take him along even if he is 90 per cent fit. His presence will be good for us. With Vinay Kumar and Avdesh Pal expected to return,we can only get stronger,” Kumar says.

The player himself is looking to get over his two-month absence from the football field. His first-half participation in a practice match on Monday suggested he doesn’t want to force the issue by returning ahead of his full recovery,especially with the possibility of another trial with Coventry City.

“It’s nice to get back to Delhi but a 10-day trial is too short compared to other states. I haven’t played for two months now and can’t confirm anything. You can still see the swelling. If I’m fit I’ll definitely play but I wouldn’t exert myself,” Chhetri says.

National coach Bob Houghton’s permission can be another rider,but going by the mood in the camp,Chhetri might well have got the go-ahead. “I’ll have to talk to him. His permission is important,” the 24-year old says.

As first-timers mutter about Chhetri,he stays true to 2008 skipper Pushpender Kundu’s “down-to-earth” observation. “Sunil Chhetri is just a name. He’s the 11th player if there are already ten on the field. So there’s no difference (between them and me). Isn’t Pushpender Kundu a big name in Delhi football? I have scored 15-odd goals in my two Santosh Trophy appearances and would like to better that if I play this time,” Chhetri added.