India are gearing up to play international friendlies against Asian heavyweights Oman and United Arab Emirates. Head coach Igor Stimac has called upon his youngsters to make their mark.
Indian National Team head coach, Igor Stimac, has called upon his youngsters to now make a mark at the international stage, having enjoyed successful domestic seasons. Stimac claimed that he and his time are trying to ensure the long term future of the country while building upon the U-17 FIFA World Cup, which took place in India in 2017.
It’s fantastic to see guys at 19, 20, 21, 23 making it to the national squad. We are trying to build on the FIFA U-17 World Cup, and develop their knowledge,
the Croatian said.
We are trying to make sure that in the next four years they become ready to play against the best, and win against them. It’s a long process in football, and it takes time.
The former Croatia manager stated that he and his team are trying to help the youngsters relax. He also ensured that no players will be judged based on solitary mistakes.
The young guns proved it in Indian Super League this season. It’s now for them to prove at the international level. I will give them the chance to do so,
he continued.
What we are doing here is trying to make them relax, and explain to them that there is no reason for fear at the international level. They need to be themselves and prove to the world that they can play against the best.
There is no reason for anyone to feel scared or have any kind of fear. Not a single player will be eliminated for one or two mistakes but we are trying to work on not to repeat them.
Stimac commended the success of the AIFF youth development programmes, stating that he is happy with the progress made.
We have 6-7 youngsters who can fight, who can chase, and pass the ball without any fear. 11 of the boys who are at the camp have come from the AIFF youth development programme,
he remarked.
I’m really happy that these projects have been so successful, and are bringing a brighter future to Indian football.
Oman and United Arab Emirates will provide the first opportunity for Stimac’s young Blue Tigers to test themselves. Bigger games will take place in June when India will face playing Qatar, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan in the AFC World Cup Qualifiers.
