Talismanic Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri yesterday gave a big thumbs up to the appointment of Igor Stimac as head coach, saying that the team will benefit from the experience of the Croatian World Cupper. Stimac, 51, who was part of Croatia's 1998 World Cup squad that finished third in France, was officially announced as head coach of the Indian team. He comes with an experience of over 18 years in coaching, structuring, and developing football with players back home and internationally.

As a coach, Stimac's major achievement was guiding Croatia to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Finals in Brazil. "I would like to extend a warm welcome to the new boss, @stimac_igor on his appointment as coach of the national team. He brings with him tremendous experience of having coached on some of the biggest stages in football. We will do well to benefit from it," Chhetri said on his Twitter handle. The Indian, 34, who is currently the second highest international goal scorer, said while there was a change of guard at the helm of affairs, the players will continue to give their best.