Army training inspiring, say Indian footballers

Bengaluru: Indian footballers Jeje Lalpekhlua and Jackichand Singh said the army training which the players underwent here as a new concept in team building exercise has inspired and taught them a lesson to remain united while taking on the opponents.

"It was unique for us. The sacrifices made by the Army inspired us," Jackichand told reporters here.

"It was a wonderful experience. We saw our Jawans doing it with ease. That motivated us and we completed the 21-barrier course. We are well a big happy family," Jeje added.

Indian footballers underwent army training as a new concept in team building exercise as the part of preparations for the 2018 World Cup Preliminary Joint Qualification match against Oman on June 11.

The training exercise took place at the Army Service Corps Centre here where the Indian players were put through obstacle courses consisting of 21 different barriers and also team building recreational games.

Talking about the tough battle ahead, Jackichand said it will be a very difficult match against Oman, but the team was ready.

"It will be a very difficult match. But we are ready. It has been an eventful year for me and I aim to carry on the momentum," he said.

Jackichand also said that head Coach Stephen Constantine has set specific responsibilities on the players and they will give their best on the field.

"We are training very hard. The coach has set up specific responsibilities and we need to stick to it. We will give our best on the field," he said.

Jeje said though there were big names in Oman squad, the home players were ready to execute coach Stephen Constantine's instructions.

"Yeah, there are big names in the Oman squad and they may be experienced. But we are there to execute our instructions," Jeje said.

"It's pertinent to have the right guidance. I'm lucky to be coached by someone like Stephen Constantine. His support is helping me come into my groove faster. I need to thank him for all the confidence he has shown in me. I need to pay him back," he said.