After recovering from a knee injury, India striker is eager to revive his international career as Blue Tigers gear up for 2019 Asian Cup qualifiers
India and East Bengal forward Robin Singh. Pic/AFP
India striker Robin Singh, who was recently included in the list of 31 probables ahead of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) 2019 Asian Cup qualifiers against Myanmar on March 28, admitted the seven months, he spent recuperating from a knee injury last year was a tough phase for him.
ADVERTISEMENT
Speaking on the sidelines of the Indian team practice camp at the Mumbai Football Arena, Andheri, Robin said: "I almost cried when I wore the FC Goa jersey for the first time after my injury during the Indian Super League last season. It was a heavy-hearted moment," said the East Bengal forward.
'Still a long way to go'
Before the AFC qualifier India will play an away international friendly with Cambodia on March 22. It is to be seen if Robin, who is one of the strikers along with skipper Sunil Chhetri, Jeje Lelkephlua, Sumeet Passi and Daniel Lalhimpuia, will finally don India colours. "I won't be fully back until the coach gives me the nod and I wear the national jersey again," Robin said.
India have been drawn alongside Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar and Macau in the final qualification round to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with pundits terming it as an easy group. However, Robin sounded wary and said that no team can be taken lightly.
India mean business
"The group seems easy, but every team will aim to qualify. We want to work hard and progress to the next round. On a given day any team can be good. We cannot underestimate anyone," said Robin, who has made 24 appearances for India, scoring four goals.
There's a dearth of good strikers in the Indian team with Chhetri and Lelkephlua shouldering the burden. Robin's return will be an added boost for the Blue Tigers. Asked about the pressure on him, Robin said: "I don't feel any pressure. Jeje and Chhetri are great strikers. I'm ready to help them and the team."
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
