New Delhi: Glorifying Sunil Chhetri’s voracious appetite for scoring in superlatives, former captain Bhaichung Bhutia says the talismanic striker will be crucial to the Indian football team’s prospects in the 2019 Asian Cup.
One short of appearing in his 100th international game, Chhetri’s silken touch was on full display in the Intercontinental Cup opener against Chinese Taipei, as the skipper recorded a hat-trick with aplomb.
“We have an easier draw than last time and clearing the round robin stage looks realistic for us this time. Sunil will obviously be expected to play a crucial role. It’s important that he is fit and at his prime. He has done exceptionally well for his country and club,” Bhutia told this agency Sunday.
Monday, Chhetri will be become the second Indian player to achive the milestone, the other being Bhutia and when asked about it, the Sikkimese sniper said: “Playing 100 matches for your country is a huge achievement. I welcome him to the elite club. He has been one of the most sincere and focussed footballers I have come across,” said Bhutia who had combined with Chhetri to form one of Indian football’s most potent striking duos.
Recalling his playing days with Chhetri, the 41-year-old said that it was fun playing with him and as both of them speak the same language things were easier. Bhutia has been the torchbearer of Indian football till he passed on the baton to Chhetri, who is eight years younger to the former captain.
“He has accomplished everything with sheer hard work. His has got amazing ability to read match situations, it’s actually unparalleled,” Bhutia signed off.