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And that is the reason Brasa is wasting no time in implementing the ideas with which he plans to change India’s fortunes. Eavesdrop on one of his conversations with skipper and defender Sandeep Singh after a training session and the working style of the straight-talking coach is clear. Sandeep is a bit shocked when Brasa asks him why he stuck to a defensive position. “You may be a defender, but you must play like a midfielder and get into attacking positions as well,” says the coach.

It’s a common adjustment that every member of the Indian team has to make, minus the goalkeeper of course, in the new scheme of things. Brasa has introduced a ‘10 midfielders’ plan, where none of the players will be confined to one position. This system means that the forwards will not hesitate to play a withdrawn role and the defenders will be egged on to push forward and create scoring chances.

Although Sandeep took time to adjust to the new technique, he is happy that the change will help raise the efficiency of the team. “The new style is going to improve our first-time passing. The defenders will be able to pass the ball out of a tight situation rather than just clearing it,” says the 23-year-old drag-flick expert.

Like many other experienced players in the team, Rajpal Singh, whose resume shows 66 India appearances, is of the view that the techniques might not be wholly new, but Brasa’s clarity of thought has made things easier. “Brasa, while explaining each technique, also dwells on its benefits. We are told about the practical implementation of each drill in match situations and that helps,” says Rajpal.

... contd.