Gurpreet Singh Sandhu starts 10-day training stint with Stabaek Fotball

The custodian plied his trade at the Norwegian club between 2014 and 2017.

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who helped India clinch the SAFF Championship in Bengaluru last week after his back-to-back heroics in the penalty shootouts against Lebanon and Kuwait is currently grinding it out in Norway in a 10-day training stint at his former club Stabaek Fotball.

Gurpreet, spent nearly three years at Stabaek between 2014 and 2017 and thus became the first Indian to feature in a European top division side as well as becoming the first Indian to feature in the UEFA Europa League. Unfortunately, Gurpreet had to return to India in 2017 due to limited game-time.

Despite limited opportunities, the relationship between Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Stabaek Fotball has been wonderful. Infact, the Oslo-based outfit wanted to sign the custodian in January, as revealed by Khel Now earlier. But, Gurpreet is now undertaking a 10-day training stint in what is currently the off-season for Indian footballers.

Khel Now caught up with Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and the goalkeeping coach of Stabaek, Espen Granli for an exclusive interview.

Decision to move to Stabaek FC for a training stint

The Indian custodian shared his thoughts on his decision to train at Stabaek. He said, “I decided to come here and train because I wanted to stay sharp and also get a higher level of training before getting into the new season in India, as it is a very important one. I am thankful to Bengaluru FC and Stabaek for allowing me to do so.”

Importance for top footballers to keep challenging themselves

When questioned about how important it is for footballers to keep challenging themselves, he answered, “I think to become better or at least maintain the level, anyone has to try testing themselves and do things which are uncomfortable.”

Following Gurpreet's journey

Espen Granli, who has been the goalkeeping coach of Stabaek ever since Gurpreet’s time at the club said that he has followed his trainee since he left for Bengaluru FC.

“Yes, I have followed him all the way since he left. (I) Try to see some games now and then,” he quoted.

Thoughts on 10-day training stint

The intent behind this training stint as revealed by Gurpreet is to stay sharp for the upcoming season. India, in the next six months are going to play tougher oppositions away from home in the King's Cup and Merdeka Cup, along with two FIFA World Cup/Asian Cup Qualifying games before the all-important AFC Asian Cup in January next year.

When asked how the training stint will help Gurpreet ,the Norwegian replied by saying, “I hope I can push him a little so he can go back with a good feeling.“

Coach proud of his achievements

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, unarguably, is one of the best shot-stoppers for India and his performances for the Blue Tigers and Bengaluru FC between the sticks have always been top-notch. Granli, who had previously trained him is very happy for his student's achievements, “I’m really happy for his success with Bengaluru and the national team,” he mentioned, hoping that Gurpreet can continue to develop his career.