MDFA fetes double Olympian Narayan

MDFA Chairman Ashish Shelar,MLC and BJP President of the Mumbai unit,felicitated the 79-year-old former Indian goalkeeper. Shelar also feted other internationals,including Marto Gracias,Santosh Kashyap,Steven Dias,former India hockey Olympians Gurbux Singh,Joaquim Carvalho and MM Somaya.

Narayan was quite disheartened that his and the other international players’ achievement were not recognised and respected earlier. “I am not asking for anything. But it is sad when your own state (Maharashtra) and the state association WIFA (West India Football Association) do not recognise our efforts,” said Narayan in a sad tone.

“After doing so much for Maharashtra,by doing well in the National competition and winning many trophies,we did not get our due,” he further stated.

Shelar was proud to be among so many great players. “I’m not exactly a sporting person. But I’m honoured to be felicitating these great players,including Narayan,” he said.

He later stated that he would take it up with the concerned authorities to ensure that Narayan and the other players get their recognition. I will also try my best to improve the game in the city.

The tall lanky Narayan was also unhappy with the slide of Mumbai football. He mentioned during his playing days,spectators,in large numbers,thronged the Cooperage ground to watch the matches. But now days there are only a few hundred spectators present at the grounds.

Narayan also pointed out that in the past there were many players from the city in the Indian team. But,said that it’s not the same today. He cited the reason for this was due lack of grounds and poor administration.