Chetri looking to shine on home turf

NEW DELHI: With the ONGC Nehru Cup international football tournament ready to take off here on Friday, local lad Sunil Chetri is all pumped up to showcase his skills in front of his home crowd.
    
Chetri shot to national limelight with a sparkling performance in the 11th National Football League that saw him score 12 goals for JCT and win the best player award.
    
The striker has come as shot in the arm for the Indian football team, which was lacking a decent strike force and a good enough partner for star forward Bhaichung Bhutia.
    
The 23-year-old is eager to carry his good NFL form into the five-nation tournament.
    
"I am entering the tournament with a lot of confidence. I played well in the NFL and was the highest Indian goalscorer. Playing for the country is different but such impressive performances in the recent past always boosts your morale," Chetri said.
    
Chetri denied there will be any additional pressure on him because the expectations from him have gone up.
    
"I don't think there will be any additional pressure on me. We want to do well in the tournament and everybody needs to give their best," he said.
     
The Delhi youngster said he was eagerly looking forward to play on his home turf and asked Delhiites to come and support the team.
     
"It always feels great to come back to Delhi and play here. There are not a lot of tournaments held here. I want people to come in big numbers and support the team."
     
Asked about his combination with Bhutia, the JCT star said he was honoured to share the turf with one of the greats in Indian football.