Winger Steven Dias has been excluded from probables for the AFC Challenge Cup as India coach Savio Medeira made as many as 13 changes to the 30-man list, released by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on Wednesday.
Star striker Sunil Chhetri returns in the mix after recovering from an ankle injury he sustained during the SAFF Championships. However, the unavailability of injured duo — Jeje Lalpekhlua and Subrata Pal — will be a concern for Medeira.
“It has upset our plans no doubt. Jeje is a player who can hold on to the ball and shield it allowing the midfielders to rush in. You cannot have a readymade replacement for him. He is someone who can make the difference in a crunch match. But at the same time, it stays a chance for others to grab the opportunity,” said Medeira. The national camp will start in Dubai from February 15 and the final list of 23 players will be announced later. The AFC Challenge Cup will be held in Nepal from March 8 and the winner of the tournament will earn a direct entry to the 2015 Asian Cup in Australia. India are clubbed along with North Korea, Tajikistan and Philippines.
Didn’t drop Climax: Medeira
Meanwhile, Medeira has expressed disappointment over former captain Climax Lawrence’s retirement from international football. “I didn’t drop him; rather I rested him. In a tournament such as the AFC Challenge Cup, you ought to play every alternate day. The recovery time stays minimal. He has been playing regularly in the I-League and for the last decade, his body has taken a toll. Hence, he didn’t figure in my plans. I did speak to him prior to my decision,” said Medeira.
Comments