Kolkata: Mohun Bagan will be aiming to finish Wednesday the home leg of their I-League campaign on a winning note against Indian Arrows in what would be a fitting farewell gift to retiring midfielder Mehtab Hossain.
The veteran midfielder, who returned to the green and maroon brigade after a long gap of 12 years this season, announced his decision to hang his boots prior to the game.
“Football has always been my passion. Whatever I am today is because of football. I don’t want to warm the benches, the time has come for me to announce my retirement,” the 36-year-old said Wednesday.
For Mehtab, one of the most committed players of his generation, the biggest regret will be not winning an I-League title either with Mohun Bagan or East Bengal.
“Not winning the I-League title will always be my biggest regret. Also I wish I could have played more matches for the national team,” an emotional Mehtab said.
Mehtab donned East Bengal jersey from 2007-2016 when he was in top form and in 2015, he called it quits from international football after he was dropped from the 26-man squad for the World Cup qualifiers.
In the ISL, Mehtab represented Kerala Blasters for the first three seasons before playing for Jamshedpur FC during the last season.
“Whatever popularity and fame I have gained, it is because of my fans. I thank my coaches and officials for giving me the opportunity to play for so many years,” Mehtab said.
“I would also like to thank all my friends from the media fraternity as well. I thank all the football fans of Bengal those who have stayed beside me through thick and thin,” Mehtab said, adding that he’s looking forward to spend more time with his family.
PTI