Team has gained confidence but we can't be complacent: Jackichand

INDIAN NATIONAL TEAM WINGER Jackichand Singh was present at the media interaction ahead of the tri-nation series.
The team has camped in Mumbai and will host St. Kitts and Nevis and Mauritius in between August 19 to August 24.

Jackichand answered questions from the media before the Indian team's practice session. On the topic of internal competition in the team shared,

"There is a healthy competition within the team but whoever impresses the coach will make it to the starting eleven"

Jackichand spoke about the good recent form of the team and credited the training staff, coaching staff and support staff for the overall improvement of the team.

This camp was significant due to the squad comprising of 10 of the Under 23 teams being called up to the camp. Speaking on this, he said,

"It is great that the younger players are getting the exposure of the senior national team. They get to learn a lot and we too get to learn from them"

Asked about the mentors in the team, Jackichand shared about Similar Chhetri being a guide on and off the field saying,

"We always talk and he helps us and shares what needs to be done"

Talking about his focus on getting regular starts for the team said,

"It's a matter of happiness that I have got my chance play for the team. And I will always try to take the country to a higher level"

The right footed winger was asked if at times he felt lack of gametime due to rotation policies, Jackichand replied saying,

"No, not at all. All players, from the starting eleven to the bench, every player is good and that is the strength of the team"

Jackichand score in India's memorable 4-1 victory in a friendly against Puerto Rico last year. Speaking about Mumbai he said,

"Yes I was happy when I scored that goal. Playing in one stadium for a longer time can help my performance"

Looking forward to the next competitive game and on the back of good results, Jackichand shared what the target of the team should be like saying,

"The pressure will be there and after the wins the team has some confidence. But we are not being overconfident. Yes the team has become good but we will take it a game at a time. Every player in the camp will give his best to win every game"

With less than 50 days remaining for the FIFA U17 World Cup to be hosted in India, the winger shared his thoughts on the team's performance saying,

"I was not able to meet the team but I have watched a couple of their matches and I liked it. My wish for them is that the best of results come their way"

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