BENGALURU: A sneak peek into the Bengaluru FC dressing room before they take on Chennaiyin FC in the ISL final will tell you it’s like calm before the storm. It was a busy day for the ISL debutants with media and broadcasters almost chasing them from the training ground. But an unprecedented calm was what you could observe among the players. One of the stars in BFC’s historic journey, youngster Udanta Singh, was composed, hardly giving out anything.
The youngster from Manipur is playing his second full season. He is someone who can be Sunil Chhetri’s replacement in the long run. He has already impressed the club management and fans. Unlike former coach Ashley Westwood, he has featured more in Albert Roca’s plans. He has repaid the faith by being one of the best in business on the right flank, terrorising defenders with blistering pace and quick feet.
While he has certainly repaid the faith, statistics don’t rate him highly in the ISL. The 21-year-old has featured in 18 games, notching just a goal and five assists, which don’t justify his work rate on the field. He has been the principal architect of half of BFC’s goals, but lack of decision-making ability in front of the goal has let him down.
“This season has been good so far. Though I have missed some precious game time, which is frustrating, I would say it has been good. I have been learning a lot from the seniors and working harder every day. What I am missing is goals and I am working hard on that,” the youngster said.
However, with every game, he is getting mature and thanks to seniors in the team, he has somehow avoided the pressure.
He knows how important this final is to his club and the fans. Chennaiyin are fierce rivals and fans demand nothing but a win. The Super Machans had the last laugh when they visited Sree Kanteerava Stadium back in December for a 2-1 win.
“It’s a special final for the club and fans. We played in the Federation Cup and AFC Cup finals but playing a final to win the league in front of our home fans means a lot. It’s an added pressure but I am looking forward to doing better,” he said.
“Sunil bhai (Chhetri) and others have been very helpful. They guide me on and off the pitch and help me understand my mistakes.”
Goals are not what he is looking at. He is happy providing assists to Miku or Chhetri, who can score to win them the final. “Right now, I am more comfortable with the passing game, assisting Miku or Sunil bhai. That’s what I am doing best at the moment. But if I get a chance, I will score against Chennaiyin,” Udanta signed off.
krishnendu@newindianexpress.com
