Chhetri has done exceptionally well for his country and club, says Bhaichung Bhutia

Sunil Chhetri is set to make his 100th appearance for the Indian football team in today’s Intercontinental Cup tie against Kenya. With 59 goals from 99 appearances, Chhetri is arguably one of the best Indian footballers to have played for India. His record with the national team is second only to the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Former Indian captain Bhaichung Bhutia was all praise for the Indian forward as he said that Chhetri has been outstanding for the Indian team ever since he made his debut back in 2005.

“Though we have an easier draw than last time. Clearing the round robin stage looks realistic for us this time. Sunil will obviously be expected to play a crucial role. It’s important that he is fit and at his prime. He has done exceptionally well for his country and club,” Bhutia told PTI.

The Indian team are working hard to prepare themselves for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup where they are drawn against the likes of Bahrain, Thailand and hosts UAE. Bhutia said that after being hammered by the likes of South Korea, Australia and Bahrain last time out, India have a much better chance of a reaching the knock-out stage next year.

“This time, definitely, we have a much better chance. I am confident that our team would qualify from the group. The players have done really well over the last many months and they will look to carry forward the momentum,” said Bhutia.

41-year old Bhutia, who served India with distinction for more than a decade and a half and scored 40 goals, recalled his playing days with Chhetri. Chhetri will become only second Indian, after Bhutia, to cross the 100 match milestone in today’s match.

“Playing 100 matches for your country is a huge achievement. I welcome him to the elite club. He has been one of the most sincere and focussed footballers I have come across. He has accomplished everything with sheer hard work. His has got amazing ability to read match situations, it’s actually unparalleled,” Bhutia added.

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