We hope all 11 Arrows make it to the final squad for the AFC U-23 Qualifiers- Floyd Pinto
(Courtesy : AIFF Media)
The Indian Arrows head coach thinks it is a matter of pride and achievement for the boys.
The Indian Arrows have been the flavour of the season with some creditable performances in the Hero I-League. The YDP project of AIFF which comprises of the nucleus of boys from the FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017, and even some 16-year olds had 11 call ups to the U-23 National Camp for the AFC U-23 Qualifiers. In an interview, Head Coach Floyd Pinto speaks at length about the potential of youth football, the forthcoming Hero Super Cup, Mahesh Gawli’s contribution, and much more.
Here are the excerpts from the conversation.
21 points in the Hero I-League. How much satisfying is that?
It is a testament to the potential of youth in Football.
What has been the hallmark of Arrows this season?
Surpassing last season’s numbers was a good feeling indeed. Ending the season with a win against mighty Mohun Bagan at the majestic Sal Lake Stadium was an indicator that the boys are ready to compete at the highest level against the best teams in the Country.
What is the significance of the Hero Super Cup to you, and the boys?
The Hero Super Cup is another opportunity and platform to showcase the abundance of talent, capability and ever improving competency of this youthful Arrows side. The boys truly believe that they are in it to compete, and not just make up the numbers.
11 boys were summoned to the U-23 Camp. As their coach, what's your reaction?
We felt a sense of pride and achievement. It is the next logical step in their development towards the goal of representing the Country at the senior level. We hope that all 11 make it through to the final squad for the AFC U-23 Qualifiers in Uzbekistan, and help India qualify for the final round, and beyond.
ALSO READ
-
AIFF launch inquiry after match commissioner casts doubt on Chennai City's win over Minerva Punjab
-
Santosh Trophy to be held in Ludhiana
-
We need to seize the initiative early in matches- Maymol Rocky
There is a whole lot of U-17 boys in your squad. Are they ready to be men? Or already men?
We played in a professional league, and in a very competitive environment. Our motto at the Arrows is simple – “If you are good enough, you are old enough.” Judging by our performance this season, we have justified our philosophy.
What has Mahesh Gawli’s contribution been?
He has brought in experience of highest level. He has always had a calm influence under pressure, and robust work ethic to the Arrows setup.
[KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS]The Arrows have been based in Odisha. How good are the facilities here?
Thanks to the Government of Odisha, we have an ideal environment to develop the full potential of the best youth players in the Country. Be it the match venue, training facilities, accommodation, food and travel, we have been made to feel at home away from home.
- Argentina announce squad for November international break; Lionel Messi will lead once again
- Who will replace Edu at Arsenal?
- Arsenal injury news ahead of Inter Milan clash in UCL; Martin Odegaard returns to training
- Super League Kerala: Calicut FC edge past Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC to qualify for finals
- Real Madrid vs AC Milan: Live streaming, TV channel, kick-off time & where to watch UEFA Champions League 2024-25
- Petr Kratky highlights this Mumbai City FC player's performance against Kerala Blasters
- Mohun Bagan not be fined by AFC after recognising their case as 'Event of Force Majeure'
- How much bonus did Vinicius Jr miss out on after losing Ballon d'Or 2024 award?
- Mats Hummels' girlfriend: Meet Nicola Cavanis, her job, Instagram & more
- Ballon d'Or 2024: List of all award winners
- FC Goa's Manolo Marquez outlines competitiveness of ISL ahead of Punjab FC clash
- Top five all-time top scorers for Indian football team
- ISL 2024-25: Updated injury & suspension list
- ISL 2024-25: Gurmeet Singh, Subhasish Bose garrison Matchweek 7 Team of the Week defence
- ISL 2024-25: Top five Indian players from Matchweek 7