The concern from the management is a moral booster for the entire squad: Thomas Dennerby


The concern from the management is a moral booster for the entire squad: Thomas Dennerby

thomas dennerby 1573305583

India U-17 women’s football team Head Coach, Thomas Dennerby thanked regular online sessions as the junior players have not lost fitness despite being clasped at their homes during the nationwide lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

ADVERTISEMENT

Dennerby also thanked the All India Football Federation for their support along with the players during the lockdown period.

“Even as all the girls stay in their respective homes, the support from the AIFF needs to be appreciated. The concern from the management is a morale booster for the entire squad,” the 60-year-old from Sweden said in a release issued by AIFF.

“We are monitoring the girls on their fitness and having online talks and sessions with them. We wait for the directives to reassemble at the camp. Our chats have ensured us that the fitness levels, tactical matters and social situations are all under control.” he added.

ADVERTISEMENT

India midfielder Martina Thokchom underlined the support, got from All India Football Federation during this crisis.

Also Read: Sunil Chhetri can play until he is 41: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu

“I understand it’s a difficult time for every one of us. But I am very thankful to AIFF for the support and it has come as a much welcome relief. I am extremely grateful for their gesture. Federation officials have called up several times and personal touch has really moved us,” said the Manipuri.

Jharkhand’s pride Nitu Linda, midfielder and Astam Oraon also expressed their gratitude and echoed the same sentiment.

ADVERTISEMENT

“Our Coach and the staff are in constant touch with us through the online sessions and the drills. On top of that, the Federation has been looking after our needs and they have reached out to us for financial help so we don’t compromise on our intake. It has also helped my family hugely,” Nitu said.

“My parents are touched by the gesture and help received from AIFF during this difficult time. I, personally, am immensely grateful for their kind benevolence. Playing for the U-17 World Cup is a dream and I want to leave no stone unturned,” Oraon said.

Also Read: Lallianzuala Chhangte: A look at his career so far

In May, FIFA had postponed the 2020 U-17 Women’s World Cup from 17 February to 7 March next year planned to be hosted by India.

ADVERTISEMENT