Panaji: India football coach Khalid Jamil has been closely monitoring the performances of at least three players who are willing to follow in the footsteps of Ryan Williams and represent the national team. Williams, 32, surrendered his Australian citizenship and obtained an Indian passport, making him eligible to play for India. The Bengaluru FC winger made his debut against Hong Kong and scored within the first five minutes, securing India's only win in the AFC Asian Cup final round qualifiers, where the team finished at the bottom.
Williams' Impact on the Squad
Williams' inclusion added significant firepower to India's attack. Jamil is now convinced that adding a few more such players could help the team turn a corner. "Once we make these additions, there will be healthy competition for places," Jamil told TOI on Saturday. "Williams has definitely opened the door for others. It's a good sign."
Priority on Strikers
The India coach did not reveal the identities or status of the players under consideration. With Sunil Chhetri's international retirement, finding a striker remains a top priority. "I want to have a good look. Players will be selected only if we are convinced that the team will be strengthened. We are looking at players based on positions that we want to strengthen. There are three players. We are waiting for documents," he said.
According to Jamil, at least one of the players will be included among the probables later this year. "I have watched his matches and already given the go ahead. He is playing abroad and will be called here (to join the camp)," said Jamil.
Earlier Experiment with Abneet Bharti
Ahead of the clash against Hong Kong in Kochi on March 31, Jamil invited Academia del Balompie Boliviano defender Abneet Bharti to join the camp. The Nepal-born Indian passport holder plays in the top tier of Bolivian football but could not make the final cut. "It was for a short time. I wanted to see him in a practice match," said Jamil.
Goalkeeper Som Kumar on Radar
Jamil has now sounded out goalkeeper Som Kumar. The young former Kerala Blasters player was the first to move to Slovenia, joining first division side NK Radomlje and later ND Slovan. Jamil had initially included Som among the 30 probables for the Unity Cup in London and the tri-nation tournament in Tajikistan. However, experienced keepers like Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Vishal Kaith, and Albino Gomes could not be left out due to their consistent performances in the Indian Super League (ISL), while Hrithik Tiwari was the preferred younger option. "Som has played in India and (now) in Slovenia. Yes, he is in my list," said Jamil.
