Edmund Lalrindika—the hat-trick hero and Golden Ball winner—is proud to have his name mentioned alongside Bhaichung's

XtraTime Web Desk: The names of Bhaichung Bhutia and Edmund Lalrindika were heard together at the Yuva Bharati Krirangan on Sunday—and it was a moment of immense pride and happiness for Edmund.

Bhaichung Bhutia etched his name into East Bengal’s history with a memorable hat-trick in the famous Diamond Derby. On Sunday, Edmund Lalrindika produced a spectacular hat-trick of his own in the derby, once again bringing his name into the same conversation as the legendary Indian striker.

Naturally, the comparison has become a talking point among East Bengal supporters. After the match, an emotional Edmund admitted that being mentioned alongside Bhaichung Bhutia, whom he described as a legend of Indian football, is a matter of great pride for him.

“Bhaichung Bhutia is a legend of Indian football. To have my name mentioned alongside him makes me extremely proud,” Edmund said after his impressive performance.

Edmund has quickly become one of the biggest favourites among the East Bengal faithful, and his hat-trick in such a high-profile match has only strengthened his special connection with the supporters.

Meanwhile, Brazil are set to visit India for an international fixture, and Edmund also expressed his desire to get an opportunity to represent India against the five-time world champions.

The East Bengal star made it clear that playing for the national team against Brazil would be a dream opportunity and one that would make him extremely happy.

For now, however, Edmund is enjoying a memorable moment in his career—one that has placed his name alongside one of the greatest icons in East Bengal and Indian football history.