The Mizoram boy says that it’s easier for the players hailing from the north east to play the passing football…
By Rahul Bali
Robert Lalthlamuana is a pleased man having earned a place in the 30 member national squad who are set to play a few friendly matches ahead of the 2014 World Cup qualifiers against United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The left back has represented the India U-23 a few times but has been part of the national squad touring abroad to play matches.
“This is the first time I am part of the senior camp and it feels good. Hope I get a chance to play as well,” Robert said optimistically.
With new coach Armando Colaco stressing on playing the ball along the ground instead of the long ball tactics adopted previously, Robert points that it is difficult for players hailing from the north east to play with the latter strategy.
“In Mizoram, the boys prefer to play the ball along the ground more. I like this style too. The reason being since people from the north east part of India aren’t very tall, we usually play along the ground.
“And so for me to adapt to coach Colaco’s style wasn’t very difficult,” Robert told Goal.com.
Having secured a transfer to East Bengal from Churchill Brothers, Robert states that the national camp has been a great learning experience for him especially getting a chance to mingle with the senior lot.
“I got to learn a lot from Debabrata Roy and Samir Naik. And it wasn’t just about football but also about discipline and other related stuff,” he mentioned.
With a rising number of Mizo players in the I-League, Robert is pleased for them and has high hopes from players hailing his native state in the coming years.
“With the new artificial turf in Mizoram, we now have a good ground. The Mizoram boys are getting a chance in the I-League. Look at Shillong Lajong – they have the maximum boys from Mizoram which is a good sign,” said Robert.
via goal.com