Need to bring about changes in Indian football, feel Bhaichung

An icon in the country, Bhutia nursed the belief that talent juxatoposed with hardwork and dedication always leads to one logical conclusion: Success.And that’s what Bhutia has gained over the years. "I found a lot of talented players in our country. But that is not going to help you in the long run. You need to have the courage and determination as well," he explained.

Indeed, he is the only Indian football player who dared to leave the shores to realise his dreams. Interestingly, India’s another star IM Vijayan, whom the football pundits regard as a more skilfull player than Bhutia, could never take the plunge.

ON INDIAN FOOTBALL: After completing his maiden season in the English League, Bhutia has become much more determined and confident; the professionalism at the club had taken him by surprise when he first landed in England, he admits.

And when a comparision between the prevailing standard of Indian football with that of the English League crops up, Bhutia doesn’t hesitate from taking a dig at the All Indian Football Federation (AIFF). He beleives AIFF has to act in a much more professional manner. "Certainly, there is still some hope left for Indian football; but there is need to bring about a lot of changes. We need some sincere and dedicated people who have the time to think about the game," Bhutia said.

"Moreover, some efficient marketing people are also required to keep its popularity intact. Look at the Football Association (FA in England) — everything is organised there," added Bhutia, who became the first Asian to score a goal in English League history.

INDIA’S TOUR TO ENGLAND: Come July and India will be making a historic tour to the United Kingdom. The national team will be playing a couple of matches includig one against top English club, Fulham FC. "But sadly we are yet to start preparing. We are always late starters," said Bhutia, who will be representing the national team for the first time since he joined The Shakers.

TRAINING FACILITIES AT BURY: "The training facilites at the Gigg Lane are excellent. The club looks after each and every player. For example, during the off-season as well, the players have been given instructions to follow certain fitness exercises prescribed by the team’s physio."

However, Bhutia agreed that Dr Vece Paes, East Bengal’s physio, had prescribed similar fitness programmes during his days with the Red and Gold Brigade. "This is where we lack; we don’t want to work in a system and nobody is bothered here," Bhutia said.

"But one should appreciate the way Mohun Bagan and East Bengal are running their clubs despite shortcomings. I think even the best of the clubs like Manchester United or Arsenal wouldn’t have survived had they been based in India," he added.

Bhutia, who scored two goals for Bury, has been a moderate success in his first season. But he has shown to his fellow players back home that playing in the English League is nothing but conquering a mental block.