Bhutia bows out in glory

[1]

Bhaichung Bhutia, the face of Indian football for more than a decade, is hanging up his boots in a blaze of glory.

In a glowing tribute to the icon from Sikkim, India played an exhibition match against Bayern Munich at New Delhi on Tuesday. Bayern, one of the top clubs in the world, are among the frontrunners to win the Uefa Champions League this season.

C.M. Ranjith, former junior Indian player and current coach of national junior teams, said Bhutia is a self-made super star.

“Whatever Bhutia has achieved in his life is through his hard work. He had no godfathers. Bhutia continues to be an inspiration for players from northeastern states,” he added.

Bhutia, Ranjith pointed out, enjoyed superb chemistry with I.M. Vijayan. “It was a treat to watch them play together. Both were outstanding players, even though Vijayan was more talented. Bhutia’s emergence filled in the void left by the retirement of the Kerala star,” he said.

According to Ranjith, Bhutia’s commitment made him a standout among his peers. “He gave his all for every team he played for.

Bhutia was a born goal-getter. He always knew where the goal was. It is rare in our country to find a player of Bhutia’s goal-scoring ability,” the State Bank of India officer said.

Bhutia never minces his words whenever he talks about Indian football. Often his views might be uncomfortable for administrators. Ranjith said the former Indian skipper is cut out for a big role in administration.

“He is always honest with his opinions. Bhutia knows the problems of Indian football thoroughly. He is respected all over the country. He can contribute a lot to Indian football,” he added.

Ranjith is bullish about India’s chances of producing another Bhutia. “There is so much talent in northeastern states. I’m sure there is another Bhutia round the corner, though finding a player of his class is not easy,” he said.

The Bayern Munich match will be special for Ranjith on another count. C.S. Sabeeth, one of Ranjith’s protégés, will also be a member of the Indian team that will take on the German giants.

Sabeeth, a native of Ooty, started his career at State Bank of India in Chennai before he moved to the I-League to play for Viva Kerala. The striker is now on the rolls of Pailan Arrows.

“I’m delighted that Sabeeth figures on the senior national squad regularly these days. He not only has the talent to go far, he works his heart out in every match. Sabeeth chases the ball as if his life is dependent on that.

Tireless running is the hallmark of great forwards. Getting an opportunity to play against Bayern is a just reward for Sabeeth. Tamil Nadu should be proud of the young Ooty boy,” Ranjith said.