‘Juniors need time to match senior squad’

Since he took over as Pailan Arrows coach, Arthur Papas has successfully raised the performance bar. The expectations might have risen considering Arrows and India U-22's recent run in Oman and the I-league last season, but winning matches is least on Papas' mind as development is his utmost priority. Speaking to Sportline, Papas outlines what more is needed to enhance Arrows' preparedness for the coming season. Excerpts.

What is your assessment of the India U-22 team that had gone to Oman and were you expecting such a performance?

As coach, I was happy because the players delivered as per my estimate. We scored a lot of goals but unfortunately we couldn't advance. We can't ignore the fact that teams there were better but we have progressed as a team and that is why two of the junior players even got a chance in the senior squad at the Nehru Cup.

Pailan Arrows didn't qualify for the Durand Cup semi-finals. Your thoughts

We had two good games against Delhi United and Air India. Its just that the conditions were horrible. The pitch wasn't even allowing players to run properly but the organisers were adamant. Durand Cup performance should not be a parameter to judge a team when the season hasn't begun.

What are your plans for the season that is approaching?

We will be going back to Kolkata and will start our training there. We have federation Cup matches to play which will be a good tournament to start. I think fitness has to be focused upon a lot and I hope we play better than the previous seasons.

What are your views on players such as Alwyn George, Manandeep and Robin Singh?

Manandeep is a good prospect upfront but Alwyn was spectacular in the midfield. It is great that the selectors saw potential and picked him up for senior squad but let me be very honest, there is still a lot of scope for improvement. As far as Robin is concerned, the positive about him is he is a big fellow and has a good technique, but it is important that he starts conditioning himself well.

... contd.

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