Trivandrum , January 01 : Indian coach Stpephen Constantine will be a worried man going into the final of SAFF Suzuki Cup . The men in blue will be up against a very strong Afghanistan squad which boasts of having footballers mostly playing abroad . According to chief coach Peter Segrt “Off the list of 20 which we have registered in the SAFF Suzuki Cup, 5 come from Afghanistan while the rest of the 15 Players stay and play outside Afghanistan.”
On being asked how did he landed up getting this offer , he commented ““It was interesting to get the offer. I wanted to work as a National Coach and it’s not often that you get it. Having said that, I am fully aware of the situation in Afghanistan and that, the Country is going through a difficult time. But I believe I can bring Afghanistan to a higher level.” The former German defender said when asked for his reasons to coach the Afghanistan team after being the U-21 Coach of Germany.
“said the former football defender. He admitted that seven footballers have quit. “To fill in the void, we had to look elsewhere but I am also looking for Afghanistan-born footballers to settle down in the squad.” he added.
According to sources revealed that some of the boys went to Kabul for the first time ever before proceeding for the SAFF Suzuki Cup. When Mr. Segrt was informed about this he admitted that “some of them had never been there (Kabul) before.” He also added that, he assembled all the Players in Kabul and started their journey from there and then dropped all the footballers into Afghanistan.
Segrt is known for his intensive communication with players while also holding a position of authority within the team. He is especially known by being loyal to his team.
“As a Coach you should understand and respect the culture of the Country you are working in.” he said. Mr. peter Segrt confessed that he is presently staying in Afghanistan in an effort to create a new situation where he can bring in some hope. “I feel any National Coach needs to reside in the Country he is contracted with.” he added.