Indian Football Team: Top 10 players with most appearances

Only two players have more than 100 appearances for Indian football team.

Representing national team is a matter of pride for any individual. With the Indian football team, it is no different. Over decades, several talented players have left an indelible mark on Indian football, representing the nation with passion and dedication. On the course, they’ve ensured to give their best while working hard in training sessions.

In this article, we will tell you the top 10 players with most appearances for the Indian football team.

10. Renedy Singh (66 apps)

Renedy Singh, a former midfielder and current coach, earned 66 appearances for the Indian football team. He also served as the team’s captain on several occasions. Renedy’s contributions have been invaluable both on and off the pitch, with his experience now benefiting Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League.

9. Subrata Paul (67 apps)

Known as the ‘Spider-Man of Indian Football‘, Subrata Paul made 67 appearances for the Indian national team, leaving his mark as a custodian. His remarkable agility and shot-stopping abilities earned him praise and admiration from fans and teammates alike. He started his career with Mohun Bagan and went on to represent various top clubs in India, leaving fans bewildered with his outstanding goalkeeping skills.

8. Sudip Chatterjee (67 apps)

Sudip Chatterjee, fondly nicknamed ‘Tulu’, was a versatile footballer who began as a center-back and later transitioned to right-back and midfielder. With 67 appearances, Sudip was considered one of the finest midfielders in Indian football and received the AIFF Player of the Decade award in 1994.

7. Gouramangi Singh (73 apps)

As a former Indian International center-back, Gouramangi Singh made 73 appearances for the national team. His defensive prowess and leadership qualities were evident during his tenure in national team colors and clubs like Mohun Bagan, Sporting Goa, Chennaiyin FC, and Neroca FC. Currently, he serves as the Assistant Coach for FC Goa.

6. Climax Lawrence (78 apps)

Climax Lawrence, a talented midfielder known for his playmaking abilities, represented India 78 times, scoring three goals. Lawrence played for esteemed Indian clubs like Dempo SC and East Bengal. He was recognized as the AIFF Best Player of the Year in 2005 and left a lasting impact on Indian football during his playing career.

5. Mahesh Gawli (79 apps)

Mahesh Gawli, a former center-back and now an Indian football coach, earned 79 caps for the national team. He is regarded as one of the best defenders in Indian football history, receiving numerous awards for his brilliance on the field. Currently, Gawli serves as the assistant coach of the Indian national team.

4. Shabbir Ali (81 apps)

A legendary striker and manager, Shabbir Ali represented India in 81 matches, netting 23 goals. Ali’s prolific scoring ability was admired by fans and fellow players. He played for distinguished Indian clubs such as Mohammedan Sporting and East Bengal. In 2011, he was bestowed with the Dhyan Chand Award, India’s highest sporting honor.

3. IM Vijayan (88 apps)

IM Vijayan, a versatile forward, donned the Indian jersey 88 times and scored 34 goals. His partnership with Bhaichung Bhutia in the attacking third was instrumental in India’s success during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Vijayan was honored with the Indian Player of the Year awards in 1993, 1997, and 1999, a feat achieved by no other player at that time.

2. Bhaichung Bhutia (107 apps)

Often referred to as the ‘Sikkimese Sniper’, Bhaichung Bhutia is celebrated as one of the greatest footballers in Indian and Asian history. Representing India 107 times and scoring 27 goals, Bhutia’s impact on the game was immense. He played for top Indian clubs and even plied his trade overseas, leaving a lasting legacy in Indian football.

1. Sunil Chhetri (142 apps*)

Sunil Chhetri, the current captain of the Indian national team, is widely regarded as one of the greatest Indian footballers of all time. With an illustrious career spanning over 21 years, Chhetri has made a record-breaking 142 appearances for the national team, scoring an impressive 92 goals. His skills have been showcased in India and abroad, with stints at Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Bengaluru FC, and Sporting Lisbon.

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