We Need Players Who Can Score: Coach Marquez on Chhetri’s Return
The Indian national football team is gearing up for their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers opener against Bangladesh, and the return of veteran striker Sunil Chhetri has brought a sense of optimism to the team’s camp. Chhetri, who had announced his retirement from international football in September 2022, has made a surprise comeback, and coach Manolo Marquez is pinning his hopes on the 39-year-old’s goal-scoring ability to get results.
Speaking in a recent press conference, Marquez emphasized the importance of having players who can score goals for India. “At this moment, the most important thing is to get results,” he stated. “We need players who can score goals. We have been working hard on our defense, but now it’s time to work on our attack as well.”
India’s recent performances under Marquez have been underwhelming, with the team managing to score just two goals in four games. The team’s inability to find the back of the net has been a major concern, and Marquez is banking on Chhetri’s experience and ability to make a difference.
Chhetri’s return to the team is a significant boost, considering his impressive goal-scoring record. The 39-year-old has netted 72 goals in 124 appearances for India, making him the country’s all-time leading scorer. His experience and knowledge of the game will undoubtedly be valuable assets for the team.
Marquez’s emphasis on scoring goals is not unfounded. India’s struggles in front of goal have been a major issue, and the team needs to find ways to increase their goal tally if they are to succeed in the qualifiers. The team’s attack has been inconsistent, with players like Ishan Devdhar and Suresh Singh Wanjamu failing to make a significant impact.
The return of Chhetri is a reminder of the importance of experience and proven goal-scorers in the team. India’s younger players have shown promise, but they need guidance and mentorship from experienced professionals like Chhetri. The 39-year-old’s presence in the team will also provide a boost to the team’s morale, and his ability to score crucial goals will take some of the pressure off his younger teammates.
Marquez’s comments also highlight the need for India to develop a more clinical finishing ability. The team has created chances in recent games, but they have failed to capitalize on them. Chhetri’s expertise in front of goal will be invaluable in helping the team develop a more ruthless approach to scoring.
The upcoming game against Bangladesh is a crucial one for India, and the team will be hoping to get off to a winning start in the qualifiers. Chhetri’s return has brought a sense of excitement and optimism to the team’s camp, and Marquez will be hoping that his experience and goal-scoring ability will make a significant difference in the team’s performance.
In conclusion, Marquez’s emphasis on the need for players who can score goals is a timely reminder of the importance of clinical finishing in the game. India’s struggles in front of goal have been a major issue, and the return of Chhetri is a significant boost to the team’s chances of success. As the team prepares to face Bangladesh, Marquez will be hoping that Chhetri’s experience and goal-scoring ability will make a significant difference in the team’s performance.
