Vijayan likely to join East Bengal

According to sources, IM Vijayan is almost certain to join East Bengal. The beleagured side, which is faring poorly in the National Football League, is on the look out for players who have the talents to change the club’s fortunes.

Vijayan, Footboller of the Year 1999, is said to be interested in the deal. Vijayan has played on the Calcutta Maidan twice before. On both occasions, he donned Mohun Bagan colours. This time, he is keen to be seen in the orange and yellow jersey of East Bengal, if the price is right.

Vijayan may not be alone. He is likely to pull in a few of his friends from Kerala. Also, watch out for the State Bank of Travancore players. A few of them might have offers to move out of Kerala, if they are willing.

A few coaches are likely to change clubs also. The grapevine has it that TK Chatunni, currently coaching FC Kochin, has been offered a contract by East Bengal. The Calcutta club is not too happy with it’s present coach Subhash Bhowmik.

Chatunni, according to informations, hasn’t made up his mind yet. He would prefer to discuss the issue with Kochin officials first. Chatunni was dumped by Mohun Bagan a few seasons ago, after leading the team to National League triumph.

Former National coach Syed Nayeemuddin is jobless and East Bengal will consider him if the deal with Chatunni falls through. Salgaocar’s Shabbir Ali also has many interests in Calcutta and migt consider a shift if the renumerations are right.

AIFF in trouble

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is in trouble again. The country’s football body finds itself in a tricky situation after Mohun Bagan failed to pay the $ 3000 fine to the Asian Football Confederation. The fine was imposed on the Calcutta-based club after they refused to host their home match of the Asian Club Championships against Japanese side Jubilo Iwata on October 16 last year.

Bagan were beaten 0-8 in their away match and one of their officials hinted to Jubilo Iwata officials that they might have to cancel their trip to Calcutta for the second leg. The Japanese had prepared for their tour by then.

The AIFF has also failed to ensure that Tarun Bose pays the $1000 fine imposed on him after he misbehaved with a match referee in 1998. Bose, a former Indian goalkeeper, was then the under-16 coach. In an abandoned tie against Pakistan in Hyderabad on July 9, 1998, Bose stepped out of his limits. He is still to pay the fine.

As per the AFC norms, the country’s premier body has to ensure that the fines are paid. The AIFF might well be penalised for the same. The AFC has also been critical of the way AIFF functions and have advised a thorough revamp.