Shanmugam Venkatesh, presently the assistant manager of the Indian National team is no stranger to SAFF tournaments, having clinched it as a player thrice during his playing career. Now that he’s with the Indian team as an assistant manager to Stephen Constantine, he hopes his experience will help the team climb to greater heights.
Q: How has your experience been working with the Indian National team?
SV: Thanks to Stephen Constantine for giving me a great opportunity. My experience is what I played last 20 years. I have played with Sunil. Sunil has played under my leadership. At the same time, I have played against the SAFF nations.
Q: Is it easier for you because you have been there and done that before?
SV: Yes. My opinions and experience as a coach and a player will help.
Q: How do you compare Stephen Constantine with other coaches you’ve worked with?
SV: All the coaches are not the same. Everyone has their own style and ideas. Stephen is a different kind of coach.I have played under Bob, he is different too.
Q: How was it facing Nepal, with them needing a win to qualify? Did you do anything
differently?
SV: No, the system is the same. Every match is very important. SAFF Suzuki Cup is a short tournament. Player injuries do count. We were missing key players, but still had players to cover.
Q: Lallianzuala impressed for India. What do you have to say about the young players in the team?
SV: It is just the beginning for Zuala, he needs time. We are giving opportunities for youngsters. We missed key players like Jhingan and Lobo.
Q: India has won SAFF Suzuki Cup six times. How do you rate your chances this time around?
SV: Every year is different.You can’t compare what we did last year, only the present counts. Afghanistan are much better now. Bangladesh in 2011 were better, they are not upto the mark now.
Q: You are through from Group A, playing two matches instead of three. Does it make it easier?
SV: It is not a big thing.
Q:What is the pressure like playing in front of the home fans in a semi-final?
SV: It is not pressure, it is an advantage. Fans are different for clubs and National team. They know the situation, so there are expectations.
Q: Lot of youngsters in the team are going into a semi-final for the first time. Is there pressure on them?
SV: There is no pressure. It is not difficult, because of the coach, who is handling things very smoothly. The younger players know the importance of the tournament.
Q: What message do you have for the supporters?
SV: It is my request for the fans to come and support us. We’ll do our best.
