Sports India

Is he in or is he out? The mystery surrounding star Indian footballer Bhaichung Bhutia’s return to the national colours continues. After announcing his retirement from international football, Bhutia has been pursued by the Federation and new coach Bob Houghton to change his mind - and now Bhutia has hinted at just that.

“After playing for 12 years, I think there are times when you don’t feel motivated enough, so I did discuss retirement plans with the president. A new coach has come, he spoke to me as well. I’m just waiting for (the team) to come back from Canada and then speak to the coach once more and then take a decision,” said Bhutia to TIMES NOW.

Bhutia’s story is one of rare success in Indian football - a player rising to the top despite the system. He is easily India’s best striker, and also an inspirational leader. And his absence is hurting the national team, who lost their first match under Houghton in Canada. So what prompted Bhutia to throw in the towel when he still had lots of football in him?

“I never said that I’m not going to play. It’s just my motivation factor that is missing. It does happen to any player I guess. That’s the only situation,” said Bhutia.

If Bhutia does don the national colours again, his first major assignment will come at the Asian Games in Qatar. And his presence will help the team.

Bhaichung Bhutia will be applying his skills for the famous maroon-and-white team – East Bengal – this season. But the big news as far as Indian football is concerned, is that Bhaichung could possibly make a return to international duty. Certainly good news for coach Bob Houghton who’s finding it tough in Canada.