Mumbai: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu is set to take the captain’s armband against Puerto Rico, India national football team manager Stephen Constantine announced, on the eve of the first international friendly in Mumbai, in six decades.
The goalkeeper had earlier created history by becoming the first Indian to sign for a top flight European side (Stabaek FC). He went on to further his reputation, by becoming the first Indian to play in the Europa League, earlier this year.
From Mohali to Norway, Gurpreet’s journey has not been an easy one.
“It was difficult at first (moving to Norway), because you’re not used to staying alone. I wasn’t. I had to learn how to cook, I had to take the public transport, which I wasn’t used to, in India. I learnt that if I had to stay here longer, I had to take care of myself,” said the goalkeeper.
Stephen Constantine says that the India custodian has improved a lot, during his time at Stabaek. The 53-year-old believes that the work culture in European clubs is beneficial for the development of young player – something that Gurpreet has achieved during his stint at the Norwegian club.
“I think, when you are in Europe, there’s very little chance to relax. You have the pressure from the moment you open your eyes, to the moment you close them. You have to work,” said Constantine.
The India coach praised Gurpreet for fighting out for his place at the Norwegian club, and sticking there for the last two years.
“For him to have been there for the last two years (is fantastic). I’m very proud of the fact that he’s not only gone there, but he’s stayed there. I know they like him, and I think his future is in Europe. And I don’t expect him back anytime soon.”
Constantine explained why it is extremely difficult for a foreign player to survive in a country like Norway, “In some countries, they don’t want a foreigner, whether he is English, or German or Greek, it doesn’t matter. They don’t want you to be there, because you are taking their job.”
