Kolkata: He is only 17 but India World Cupper Abhijit Sarkar now wants job security that will help him secure financial stability for his family.
“Every state like Manipur, Mizoram have given cash incentives in lakhs to the players. And Bengal is the home of Indian football. We have done so much and I feel we also deserve to get something. I hope the state government helps us as well,” Abhijit said late Friday night after his arrival here. Accompanying him on the same flight were two other Bengal boys of the India squad – forward Rahim Ali and Jitendra Singh.
India No.10 Abhijit had an impressive game against Colombia and almost gave them a first half lead but missed the target by a whisker, when his strike from an acute angle was blocked by Kevin Mier.
“It’s really disappointing that I missed the target. I will regret this miss forever. I could not believe myself that I had missed the goal, but that’s part and parcel of the game. It will haunt me that I could not become the first Indian to score a goal in a World Cup,” rued the player.
Abhijit also hoped he gets to play a big club in his ultimate aim to represent India seniors. “Now it’s time to graduate to the next level and play for India seniors but before that I would like to get a good club. Also I am in search for a job now, my parents are old and it’s time that I look after them. It would be real help if the state government helps us,” added the player.
Abhijit’s journey started from Bandel, a suburban township approximately 60km from here. The sole earner of his family is his father who ferries cargo on a cycle van. The footballer reminisced about the days when he did not have the money to even buy a pair of football boots.
“I managed to pursue my football dreams because of my coach and parents. My parents faced insurmountable hardships, but never stopped me from playing football. My coach got me my first football boots. Now is the time for me to do something for them. That is why I want a job and a good club contract,” the player informed.
Agencies
