A couple of days ago, Indian national team head coach Igor Stimac announced the 23-man squad for a couple of friendlies against Bahrain and Belarus. Among that list, there were seven new faces. While people were excited about other young players, there was one that stood out, VP Suhair. The versatile forward from Kerala might be a late bloomer for many but his consistent performances have been finally rewarded with a national team callup.
Suhair has been consistent ever since he joined Mohun Bagan under the tutelage of Kibu Vicuna. The Spanish tactician guided the Mariners to the I-League title and VP Suhair was one of his most trusted soldiers in that campaign. Then he joined NorthEast United and there also he delivered top class performances under Khalid Jamil. The 29-year-old showed his flair in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22 season with six goal contributions comprising of four goals and two assists. In a season where NorthEast United struggled, Suhair was one of the few positives.
“It’s a dream come true moment for any footballer to play for his country. While returning from our final Indian Super League fixture, I received a text message from coach Stimac saying I was included in the national team camp,” Suhair said in an interaction with Times of India.
Suhair shared great understanding with his fellow NorthEast United attackers like Deshorn Brown, Laldanmawia Ralte, Mapuia and others. The Highlanders were later joined by ISL legend Marcelinho.
“I cannot express how thrilled I am. It’s a proud feeling to train with the national team. I am enjoying each moment with the squad. The coach is fantastic and knows how to get the best out of each player,” he added.
It has been a tough road for the Kerala born footballer as he was marred with injuries early on in his career. But his hardwork, determination and hunger to chase after his goal was so strong that nothing could stop him from wearing the India blue.
Suhair is very versatile, though he started as a forward he can also play out wide on the right and even behind the main striker in midfield. On his debut against Bahrain, Stimac used him upfront as the main striker. He had a rather quiet game as India struggled to keep possession against superior opponents.
The Blue Tigers did find the net through Rahul Bheke who headed home from a brilliant Roshan Singh cross. But it was not enough as Bahrain left it late to win the match 2-1. Both Suhair and India will be hoping to bounce back against Belarus in the second friendly match which is scheduled for 26th March.
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