Captain Bhaichung Bhutia insisted Indian football had taken a step in the right direction and would continue growing in the future. Speaking at the launch of the team's new official kit, designed by Nike, the skipper recounted his experience having played with the team for the past 16
years.
Bhutia, who completed his centenary of international matches during the Nehru Cup last year here, said, "It is not easy to complete 100 matches when you end up playing two-three matches every 96-97 days."
India, ranked 138th in FIFA rankings, has played just one international match this year, against Thailand on Saturday. The return leg will be played on Wednesday at the Ambedkar Stadium here.
Bhutia said a lack of mental confidence had proved to be the biggest obstacle in the team's progress. "But that has now changed over the past four-five years," he said.
Another factor had been the inconsistency in squad for every tournament. "Earlier, every training camp used to be a selection trial before the tournament. It was disheartening to find a new team every time," he said. For this, the structure of the clubs also has to change.
Both home and away kits were unveiled, and the team will play in the new kit on Wednesday. Striker Sunil Chhetri, midfielders Mahesh Gawli, NP Pradeep and Mehrajuddin Waddoo were also present, with AIFF general secretary Alberto Colaco.