MARGAO
Legendary Bhaichung Bhutia could be easily referred to as the efficient face in Indian football. Bhutia always excelled. His planning has been meticulous and he would never miss his details which earned him praise from the football fraternity.
Bhutia has filed his nomination for the post of president of the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The only other player to contest from the ‘eminent’ list is Bihar’s Madhu Kumari who has filed her nomination for one of the executive committee posts.
Known as the 'Sikkimese Sniper' for his goalscoring prowess, Bhaichung, 45, is considered one of the country's greatest footballers. The charismatic striker was the first Indian footballer to have played more than 100 matches for India. He retired from international football a few months after playing in the 2011 Asian Cup in Qatar, having made his debut in 1995.
He had played for top Indian clubs like JCT, East Bengal and Mohun Bagan during an illustrious career, besides also spending a few seasons at English side FC Bury (1999 to 2002). His hunger for goals and his passion for the game made him the father-figure of Indian football. Bhaichung also captained the national side and currently plays the role of manager at the Sikkim state football club.
Bhaichung was not only good at football, but also represented his school at basketball, badminton and athletics. His uncle Karma Bhutia managed Gangtok-based Boys Club where Bhaichung played in his early years.
Bhaichung played for several other local school teams and clubs and brought attention to himself in the 1992 Subroto Cup where he received the "Best Player” award. His talent was spotted by former Indian goalkeeper Bhaskar Ganguly and helped Bhutia move to West Bengal where he would play most of his career
Speaking to 'The Goan', he said that he filed the nomination as a a representative of eminent players. "In light of the Supreme Court decision to allow players, I hope that the players can have a chance to serve Indian football," Bhutia said. "There was a lot of confusion till the last minute even I was not sure if I would contest. A SC hearing is scheduled next week. A lot will depend on that," Bhutia added.
Former India captain Climax Lawrence said it would be good for the country's football fraternity that Bhutia has filed his nomination for the post of the AIFF president. "If a player of the status of Bhaichung thrown a ring for the post of president of the AIFF, it will be a good thing for the footballers in the country,”
"It will be a good move for the interests of the players and for football in the country," Lawrence said.
