No reason why Sunil Chhetri can’t keep playing, says Bhaichung Bhutia

Chhetri, the lone goal scorer for Indian in their King’s Cup clash on Wednesday, overcame former Indian skipper Bhutia to become the nation’s most capped international player with 108 appearances. And heaping praising on Chhetri, Bhutia stated that his commitment to the cause could see him play for many more years.

“I am extremely proud of him. Big congratulations to you Sunil,” Bhutia said, reported PTI.

“There’s no reason why he can’t continue for long. He is a thorough professional. He is most hard working senior player in the circuit. In fact, even if you compare him to younger players, Sunil stands out. He is always at the gym doing that extra bit. The manner he has maintained his fitness is exemplary. He is a very sincere soul,” Bhutia added.

After coach Igor Stimac handed potential debuts to as many as eight players in his 23-man squad, Michael Soosairaj had thrown light on how the skipper made the youngsters comfortable with advice. And Bhutia echoed the same.

“He has been a great leader, and a great player for India. I hope he continues to perform in the manner he has been doing. You could always see the kind of commitment he had since we first met in Kolkata. His hunger to succeed always made him special,” he added.