‘What I’m is because of JCT’

The foremost topic on everyone’s lips was JCT. The decision to disband the club on Monday came as a jolt to the players, the club’s former stars included. One such player is Baldeep Singh. HT reports.

The foremost topic on everyone’s lips was JCT. The decision to disband the club on Monday came as a jolt to the players, the club’s former stars included. One such player is Baldeep Singh.

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Baldeep, who was associated with JCT for four years before signing for Salgaocar this season, could only repeatedly say achha nahi lag raha hai. “I’ve played for JCT for four years. What I am today is only because of JCT,” said the midfielder on Tuesday after the senior national team’s practice session at the Ambedkar Stadium here.

“JCT was the only club in Punjab which gave a platform to the players of that region. Now I don’t know what will happen,” Baldeep added, the sadness evident in his voice.

On the 20-odd players left in the club, one wonders what will be their fate. “I really don’t know what will happen to them. Where they will go, which club they will sign for…,” the 24-year-old said before signing off.

Dempo’s Samir Naik also echoed a similar thought. “It will severely affect football in Punjab. Also, clubs being disbanded will be a cause for worry for all professional teams,” he said.

Optimism

When India coach Armando Colaco axed senior players from the national squad, it was a matter of a lot of debate. However, Naik believes this action is a golden chance for youngsters.

“It will be a chance for the youngsters to show their mettle,” said the India regular, who has played under Colaco for the past 12 years.

Gouramangi joins

Gouramangi Singh joined practice Tuesday after severe dehydration led him to spend a day in a city hospital’s ICU ward. Clifford Miranda was also seen at practice, after a couple of days’ lay off. According to sources, Gurvinder Singh and Francis Fernandes, both injured, may be heading home soon.