MARGAO
Goan striker Karishma Shirvoikar is looking forward to impressing new coach Thomas Dennerby ahead of India's campaign in the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2022 to be held in the country next year.
Having taken charge of the senior women’s team, Dennerby - who was earlier in charge of the Indian U-17 women’s team - has called up 30 players for a preparatory camp in Jamshedpur from August 16. While she is happy at being picked in the initial squad, Karishma is now focused on securing a spot in the final squad.
“I am elated on getting selected for the national camp. My focus is now on representing India in the AFC Women's Championship. Of course, I am very happy and my parents are also very happy,” Karishma, who played for Gokulam Kerala in Indian Women's League, told 'The Goan'.
“The call-up has really motivated me. So I am motivated to train harder and work harder,” Karishma said. “The year 2020 wreaked havoc in our lives and we could not play football. However, I managed to keep a level of fitness during the pandemic period.”
Antonio Pango, vice-president of Goa Football Association, congratulated Karishma on her selection. “She is very talented and disciplined. She holds a lot of promise,” Pango said. “I hope she will give her best during the camp so that she can keep the Goan football flag flying high. I wish her good luck.”
