Indian football team midfielder Ayush Chhetri was delighted after he made his international debut with the Blue Tigers last week. The 21-year-old was included in the starting XI by Manolo Marquez for the friendly game against the Maldives.

India registered a thumping 3-0 win against the South Asian country after Rahul Bheke, Liston Colaco, and Sunil Chhetri scored for the hosts at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong.

For Ayush, it was a proud moment to share the field with the senior players and fulfill his childhood dream of representing the country. The youngster also came up with an impressive performance in the midfield.

“Of course, I was a bit nervous before the game. I’m usually a quiet person before kick-off. But when the match got underway, I felt very comfortable and confident,” Chhetri said in an interview to the-aiff.com.

“It was an unforgettable night for me. A childhood dream to play for the senior national team came true. I video-called my parents after the game and they were so happy for me. My grandfather almost cried. My family has supported me in everything. I dedicate this match to them, and I would also like to thank all the Nepali people in Mizoram,” he further shared after his debut in Shillong.

Chhetri made his professional debut in the I-League at the age of just 17 during the 2020-21 season and he was bagged by FC Goa after his impressive performances in I-league.

The youngster said he wants to keep playing at the top level for the national team and deliver the goods.

“I want to keep playing as many matches as possible for the national team and help our country reach higher. I have a lot of things to improve, like my speed and strength. The national team is different from the club because here we don’t have much time to adjust. We have to adapt to what the coach wants. It’s a bit easier for me since Manolo is also FC Goa’s coach. Also, the senior players help me a lot,” he revealed.

India will take on Bangladesh in the AFC Asian Cup qualifier on Tuesday.