Suresh Muttath, the forever committed former defender of the Indian football team

Suresh Muttath a Malayalee who played for Kerala and played for many years in India’s defensive Kata, Mohan Bagan and East Bengal teams.

The 42-year old genuinely solid, tall and hard-working – resigned Indian national group place back Muttath Suresh left an enduring inheritance in Kolkata with his exhibitions for East Bengal.

The footballer, who grew up with the game that his dad likewise played, was fundamental for the protection of the India national group too. Close by his awards for National Football Championship (NFL), ASEAN Cup and Federation Cup wins with East Bengal is the pleased respect of a South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Cup triumph with India in 2005.

Suresh was gaining national attention by scoring his first goal against Assam in the first game. The Kerala team was under the guidance of coaches – Sreedharan and Peethambaran.

“I had only heard about how famous footballers who I liked spoke on how it is special to play in Kolkata. I was very happy when I got the chance to play there.” – Suresh said.

It is a fact that Suresh did not have to look back on his football career after moving to Bagan. It was a dream come true to play at the Kolkata club. Suresh’s future career proved that it was a good decision.

“I switched from Mohun Bagan to Mahindra (United). The fan atmosphere was different, we can really feel it. The people in Kolkata know you when you go outside. We didn’t have mobiles back then but then they took autographs from you.” – he said.

“I played for EB in 7 years. When we play well, the reaction is great and they love you. But if we lose, they abuse and throw stones. It is like that.” – the 42-year old defender added.

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One of the most foreseen confrontations in Indian football is the Kolkata derby, an installation that Suresh has been lucky enough to be a standard piece of during his playing profession. Suresh cherished the derbies and delighted in playing under tension, on account of his experience of playing Sevens football in Kerala.

“The Salt Lake stadium is special and it adds to the atmosphere of a Kolkata derby. Only those who feel it will understand. I was amazed when I played in the derby for the first time. But playing Sevens football in Malappuram helped me deal with the pressure. It was easier to play in derbies for me. The atmosphere is electrifying, and it is an unforgettable moment in my life.”

Then comes the invitation to the Kerala team for the National Games. Kerala team for the Madras-Coimbatore Santosh Trophy competition. He played for Thrissur in the Santosh Trophy. The day after Thrissur’s game, he joined his dream counterpart, Bagan. Immediately after U-21, he got called up to play for the senior side. The tall and committed center-back scored a goal in the Afro-Asian games in 2003 as hosts India defeated Rwanda 3-1 in the group stage.

“I used to play for the U-21 India national team. I was selected for the senior team after the Santosh Trophy in Thrissur when senior players were rested for a tournament (MFF Golden Jubilee Tournament in 2000) in the Maldives. The moment when I scored for the national team is special for me. To score a goal for your country is a dream for all players.” – as the 42-year old recalled.

“I wish to see East Bengal play in the ISL. We will miss Kolkata derby. People in Kolkata seem to be confident that East Bengal will play in the ISL. It will be good for the atmosphere.” – he added.

The Government of Kerala had given him a job in the Health Department. The former Indian player has been busy recently due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He continues to work at Thrikkarippur, however the 42-year old defender still has a ball game.

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