The All India Football Federation put off the decision on the Goal 2011 plan for a week after deliberations with club officials failed to resolve the differences. They will decide on the matter on April 24. As per this plan,27 players will train under national coach Bob Houghton for 19 months from July to prepare for the 2011 Asian Cup without any club commitments. The will be barred from playing any domestic tournaments,including I-League and Federation Cup,and the clubs are understandably perturbed,as they stand to lose their stars for two season. After a meeting of I-League club representatives with the AIFF top brass here ,Houghton said the clubs were supportive of the project though they have reservations on some matters. We have heard views of club representatives and they are generally supportive of the plan. They want the betterment of Indian football. They know that 2011 Asian Cup is very important for Indian football. AIFF Executive Committee will take a decision on April 24, Houghton said after the meeting. Out of the 12 I-League teams this season,nine Dempo,Churchill Brothers,Mohun Bagan,East Bengal,Mohammedan Sporting,JCT,Mahindra United,Air India and Mumbai FC have agreed the plan in principle. The project is feasible,only thing is the financial part. Some clubs have reservations still but they will agree considering the benefit of the project. Asian Cup is a big event and if we do well it will be a big boost for Indian football, the coach said.
