Thursday, June 21, 2007

Bhutia Bagan captain


KOLKATA: India’s atar striker Baichung Bhutia will lead Mohun Bagan in the upcoming football season.
Bhutia signed his allegiance to the club for the second consecutive season here on Monday.
He will have midfielder Dharamjit Singh as his deputy. The club also announced the name of Brazilian Carols Roberto Silva as the new coach for the season.
Carlos, who had coached East Bengal last year, will arrive later this month and the team will start preparing for the domestic season from July 1.

Terming the oportunity to lead the green and maroon brigade as a ‘great honour’, Bhutia said “On my part I will do my best to bring success to the club.” Asked about his target for the coming season, he said “To play better and better. I hope Bagan will put up a better show than they did last year.”The Bagan president said Carlos, who coached East Bengal last year, was chosen for his technical knowledge, ability to gel with senior players and astute media handling. The veteran coach’s good rapport with club officials was also taken into consideration.Welcoming Carlos’ appointment, Bhutia said though he had not worked under him, other players had showered praise on the Brazilian for his technical brilliance. Carlos had limited success with East Bengal last year, and his contract was not renewed by the red and gold club.