Tamil Nadu have never won the Santosh Trophy and they are not making any tall claims this time either. However, TN’s talented bunch are ready to give it their all in the latest edition at Odisha and hope for nothing but the best in return.
If Syed Sabir Pasha’s team win the Santosh Trophy, the game will receive a boost in Tamil Nadu. “It would be great if we are able to set an example. The victory might inspire a lot of youngsters to take up the sport. That is the best thing that can happen to Tamil Nadu football,” Sabir, who is coaching the senior state team for the first time, said.
In the years gone by, Santosh Trophy team selection has raised many eyebrows. Out of the blue, some little known district players’ names would figure in the final list. However, this time around there was no interference from the TFA and the team were selected purely on merit.
“What people need to understand is that the cream of talent available in districts shift base to play in the Chennai league. So, the team selected for the national tournament is not a city team alone. There is a right mixture of Chennai and district players in the squad. And the best part about this team is that they know each other very well. They are good friends on and off the pitch — something which is important for a team to play as a unit,” said Sabir.
The coach added that he has warned his team against complacency. “Playing in the Santosh Trophy is going to be an education for them. They can be the biggest stars here in the CFA league but once you get to the national scene things are different. Our team have got brilliant individuals but the primary task is to work as a team,” said the Indian Bank officer.
When pointed out that the refereeing standards have invited a lot of flak in the previous editions with some section of people even blaming the officials of being biased, Sabir said: “Refereeing is something that is not in our hands. We will go out and play in the right spirit. Moreover, when we are able to do well, no one can stop us. A goal is a goal and that is what counts.”