Look up to Chhetri: Vijayan tells young India players

Vijayan and Chhetri got together for a free-wheeling live chat on Instagram last Sunday. “It is a simple thing. Life is short and your playing career (in football) is short too. You play football with your feet, but you should not let it get to your head. Otherwise, it can be a dangerous fall,” said Vijayan according to the aiff.com, as he emphasised on the importance of being grounded.

He added the same is applicable for people across all walks of life. Vijayan, who turned 51 last month, praised Chhetri for his longevity and dedication towards the game and called upon youngsters to look up to the 35-year-old marksman as a proper role model.

Addressing Chhetri, Vijayan said: “I follow your matches. The dedication and resolve with which you play for your club and country is brilliant. The number of matches you have played for India and the number of goals you have scored – it’s a huge achievement.

“I have spoken to many youngsters and upcoming players including Sahal (Abdul Samad) and Ashique (Kuruniyan), and I tell them to look at you. The way you play and the things you do -- I ask them to take you as an example,” he continued. Chhetri spoke about Vijayan’s humility and mentioned he played football “purely” for the love of the sport.

“If you want to see a humble example of a superstar, here it is (Vijayan). If you want to see someone who played the game purely because he loved it, here it is. If you want to see someone who is brilliant in every way and yet so down-to-earth, here it is,” Chhetri stated.

He also recollected a memory of watching one special Vijayan goal in 2005, saying: “He was playing for Churchill Brothers. He came on a substitute. He didn’t look quite fit, but there was a cross. There were two defenders, but he took the ball on his chest and back-volleyed it into the top corner from outside the penalty box.

“The way he used to score goals used to amaze everyone. He was an absolute pleasure to watch. He is by far the most skilful and innovative player I have seen,” added Chhetri.