Subroto Cup U-17 sensation Chopel Bhutia hopes to emulate idol Sahal Abdul Samad

Coach Amos Subba says Sikkim Government is very supportive to uplift football at the grassroots level

The Subroto Cup has always been a great stage for youngsters to come out and display their skills. One such prominent name that has emerged is of Chopel Bhutia from Sikkim who plays in the U-17 category.

The youngster has a very inspiring story. At such a young age, his exceptional displays on the field have amazed everyone.

Speaking about his journey the youngster and his coach Amos Subba exclusively spoke to Khel Now and here is what they said:

Sikkim Government’s role

The coach spoke about Sikkim Government’s role in developing the beautiful game in Sikkim. He said,  “Yes, football is growing in Sikkim. Our honourable Chief Minister is very supportive and he has given some fundings to uplift football at the grassroots level. We go from village-to-village and do scouting and select the boys." 

He also said that the government has set up academies and looks after the all-round development of the players.

“We have got an academy run by the Sikkim Government. We have an U-19 academy in Gangtok. They introduced the Sikkim Premier League to promote Football in our region. The state government looks after the schooling, diet, kit and everything of the boys,” Amos Subba said.

Chopel Bhutia’s comments

Support 

The teenage sensation opened up about how his family and the Sikkim Government has supported him to get here. He said, “My father drives a tourist taxi. He supports me a lot and it is because of him that I’m here today. The Sikkim Government has been supportive and has helped me a lot financially to come here. Our school is also very supportive and all of us are from the same school which has helped us develop our team bonding,”

Future plans

When asked about his future plans, Chopel replied that he wants to make a career in football and represent the Indian National football team someday.

“I want to build my future in football. I want to work hard, gain experience and then play in the Indian Super League and represent India as well,” he said.

Baichung Bhutia’s influence

Chopel hails from Sikkim which is also known as the land of Baichung Bhutia. Speaking about his influence on his game, Chopel said, “I’ve met Baichung Bhutia a lot of times. He just tells me to work hard and focus on my goals and the rest will be taken care by the almighty,”

Role Model

The youngster was quizzed about his role model in Indian Football. He said that he likes Sahal Abdul Samad and wants to learn everything from him.

“I want to become like Sahal Abdul Samad. I like his footwork, vision and everything about him. There is so much I can learn from him,” he concluded.