Calcutta: For Sunil Chetri, each of the 90 goals he scored in National Football League and I-League combined has been fulfilling. "You cannot say which one was more significant and fulfilling. Every goal gave me immense satisfaction," Chetri said from Aizawl on Thursday morning.
But the top marksman and one of India's most cerebral footballers is not resting on all the messages and phone calls he got since Wednesday evening.
"Look when I started playing the National Football League with Mohun Bagan in 2002, I never thought I would reach this mark. Frankly speaking, till someone told me before the Minerva match that I am one goal short of equalling (Bhaichung) Bhutia's 89-goal mark, I did not know that I have scored 88 goals. I never keep track of records.
"But yes, I remember vividly all the goals I have scored in my playing career. From my City Club days in Delhi to Wednesday's match. That's not something uncommon though. Sportspersons always remember their exploits," Chetri said.
Chetri, however, is sad that on a day he surpassed Bhutia, his team could not log full points. "I missed the penalty and then failed to convert some more. So I am not happy with this performance."
The India captain is also worried about Bengaluru FC's poor form in the ongoing I-League. The reigning champions have not won their last five matches and are fifth in the I-League points table with 12 points from eight games.
"We have to convert chances. We are dominating matches, but not being able to score. That's something we have to sort out as early as possible. Also, injuries to key players have affected our performance."
According to Chetri, most of the Bengaluru FC players are not used to deal with losses and draws. "For the first time in three years we are facing this crisis. But in sports there could be ups and downs too. You have to stay strong to overcome the crisis. I am confident we will be able to do that. And who knows, may be the Mumbai FC match could be the turning point," he said.
Chetri was effusive in praising Aizawl FC. "They are doing a wonderful job." Talking about the national team's forthcoming friendly against Cambodia, Chetri said the most crucial part will be to remain injury-free.
