Yogesh for U-14 football camp

He donned the national colours in 2009 for the first time when he was a part of the Indian side that traveled to Iran to play AFC Cup at the age of 13.

The youngster impressed the selectors to such an extent that he found a place to fly to Iran in 2010 in the U-14 team. Kumar said that his performance as a center back was appreciated as the team managed to return unbeaten. “I was selected in a camp for 2 months after we returned from Iran. My final exams were going on and I had to miss two of my exams. Thankfully I had performed well in the prelims which helped me to get a promotion to the next standard,” Yogesh said in a chuckle.

Kumar is excited to join the National camp which is going to be held at Goa from September 1. The consistency in his performance in the Subroto Cup,which he has been playing for the last four years has helped him to gain a chance to train under the guidance of English coach Colin Toal.

“It is an opportunity to refine my skills. It is difficult for players to get a chance like this. I will make sure that I make the best effort to raise my game,” added Yogesh.

Currently training under DDA coach Jasmer Singh,Yogesh feels that he still needs to put a lot of effort on his speed.

Although he says that his physique supports him as a soccer player but fatigue sets in the dying moments of the match.

“There is no end to perfection. I feel my technique is fine but still there is lots to improve. Once I achieve the fitness standards,I hope it will definitely improve my speed,” he said.

Although Yogesh handles the center field in the match but he takes his inspiration from striker Sunil Chetri.

When asked about his liking for the ace player,he quickly quipped that he adores his game and the liveliness he brings to the sport. Among the foreign stars,John Terry tops his lists since he mans the same position in the field.

“I really wish that the stint in Goa would come handy in making me a competitive footballer. I want to play in the big clubs as all these players played and eventually for the national team,” said Yogesh.