New Delhi: India’s first-choice goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu feels that good number of international friendlies against difficult opponents will hold the national team in good stead, ahead of their AFC Asian Cup campaign in UAE net year.
India are set to play China in October 13 in an international friendly and are expected to play Saudi Arabia next if the federation gets the match arranged.
“Facing China is very good news for us. It gives a chance to test ourselves against a good opponent. We have tried to develop into a fighting unit in the last three-four years and we need to use the available windows,” Gurpreet told this agency.
“Maybe four to five friendlies against good teams will be an ideal preparation. But it also comes down to teams’ availability and willingness. The AIFF is doing a good job as we try to prepare ourselves for stiff competition from strong opponents.”
Asked about the influence the talismanic Sunil Chhetri has on the national team, the 26-year-old premier goalkeeper was all praise for the country’s record goal-scorer.
“It’s an honour to play alongside him. He is the most important player in Indian football right now and one of the most important in Indian sports too. His hunger inspires us and he leads by example. I would want him to play as long as I play,” said the six-footed glovesman.