AIFF should increase teams in ISL & I-League: Jaspreet Singh, Namdhari FC goalkeeper

Jaspreet Singh also spoke about his goals and more.

The 25-year-old goalkeeper Jaspreet Singh emerged as a crucial figure for Namdhari FC in the recently concluded I-League 2023-24. Arriving on loan in January 2024 from Sreenidi Deccan, Singh brought a wealth of experience and composure to Namdhari’s defence.

The towering goalkeeper was a key figure in the club’s impressive start to the year. With a string of crucial saves and a commanding presence in the box, Singh emerged as a vital cog in Namdhari’s defensive prowess. His prior I-League experience proved valuable for Namdhari, as he helped the young backline.

Recently, Jaspreet Singh sat down with Khel Now for an exclusive chat. From talking about his own experiences to his role-models, the goalkeeper shared his insights about a lot of topics.

On Namdhari FC’s successful season

Q: Namdhari FC has had a strong start to the season. What factors do you attribute this success to, from a goalkeeper’s perspective?

A: We played like a true unit on the field. Our communication and understanding, especially with the all-Indian defence were exceptional. I believe we were the strongest defensive line in the I-League and that made my job a lot easier.

On his most memorable save

Q: Can you walk us through one such save that stands out for you and how you approached that situation?

A: My favorite save was the one where I denied a NEROCA FC player, who took a shot from outside the box and I stretched my whole body to save the ball that was going into the top right corner.

Relationship with defenders

Q: How would you describe your working relationship with the defenders at Namdhari FC?

A: Luckily, I got a great defence line in front of me at Namdhari FC who were mature and very hardworking. Our understanding and communication with each other were perfect, so it helped to win games.

Takeaways from the season

Q: Looking back at the season, what are your biggest takeaways for yourself and Namdhari FC?

A: My biggest takeaway was to never lose and focus on our goals. Always be focused on the field whether it’s training or a match.

Overcoming Challenges

Q: Have there been any particular challenges Namdhari FC have faced this season? How have you and the team overcome them?

A: Namdhari FC’s main focus was to improve players this season. Our club had so many debuts and has given chances to young players too, resulting in good performances in the I-League after the January break.

Aspirations

Q: Looking beyond the current season, what are your aspirations for your football career?

A: I’m pretty positive and love Indian football. I would aim to represent my country on the big stage in the upcoming years. Just one thing I would like to request to our Federation is to increase the number of teams in ISL and I-League so that players could get a platform to perform and get a career in football.

On his upcoming goals

Q: Have you set any specific goals you’d like to achieve in the coming years?

A: My goal is to achieve the highest level possible and play for my nation in the upcoming years.

Developing Skills

Q: How do you plan to continue developing your skills and staying at the top of your game?

A: My main focus was on developing myself and training hard every time I stepped on the field.

Role-Model

Q: Who are some of the goalkeepers you admire and what aspects of their game do you try to emulate?

A: My favorite goalkeeper and whom I admire most was Jan Oblak from Atletico Madrid. The consistency he provides every match is admirable.

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