Bhutia hails Pandita for La Liga contract
Baichung Bhutia has called for the Indian football management to take a look at Ishan Pandita after the 18-year-old Bengaluru boy became the first Indian to sign a professional contract with a Spanish top division side. Pandita has been handed a one-year contract by La Liga club Deportivo Leganes.
“I haven't seen him play as he has never played in India. Nonetheless, I would take this opportunity to congratulate him for his achievement. Bagging a contract with a La Liga team is no mean feat,” former Indian captain Bhutia, who holds an advisory post with the All India Football Federation, was quoted as saying by IANS news agency.
“I would like the national coach (Stephen Constantine) to have a look at him. We would love players with international experience to play for the country. He can probably fit in the India U-20 team in the future,” added Bhutia, who is the second Indian player after Md Salim to ply his trade in Europe.