Bengaluru FC coach: Sunil Chhetri sets an example for others to follow

File photo of Sunil Chhetri (number 11)

The opportunity to create a bit of history for themselves is inspiring new I-League outfit Bengaluru FC’s head coach Ashley Westwood.

In a freewheeling interview to AIFF Media, the former Manchester United youth player spoke on their pre-season, pros and cons of starting with a new club, on the forthcoming I-League, and on Indian national team captain Sunil Chhetri.

How is the Pre-Season going?

Ashley Westwood: It’s been going very well. All the players are enjoying the training and applying themselves in a professional manner. We’ve shown some real improvement, especially with fitness.

What are the pros and cons of taking over a new club?

AW: There is always a big scope for improvement. There’s no history at the club and hence, we are not competing against any of the previous teams that have won laurels. We have a chance to create a bit of history and name for ourselves.

At the same time, as it’s a new club, everything needs to be built from scratch.

What prompted you to come to India?

AW: JSW’s plans and ambition for the future prompted me to take up this job. I spoke to the owners and liked their proposal.

How much of an idea do you have about I-League?

AW: When I first got approached I didn’t really have much of an idea about the I-League. But I’m a fast learner and I’m taking my research very seriously. The two months since I first spoke to the owners, my knowledge has improved vastly.

You have the Indian captain Sunil Chhetri in your squad. What’s your take on him?

AW: He’s one of the most talented Indian players on the field. He also brings a lot to a football club in the fact that he is a good leader, very professional around the place and a great example for the other players to follow.

What are your plans for the upcoming season?

AW: We want to bring a professional, well-disciplined and organised team to the I-League who want to play football the correct way and set some high standards for the rest of the league.

Are you happy with the squad at your disposal?

AW: Yes, we’ve put together a well-balanced squad with the flexibility to add three or four more players in the areas that we feel we may need a bit more strength in depth.

What kind of finish are you looking at in the first season?

We aim to improve on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. Bengaluru FC are a new club and we want to build some solid foundations that will stand us in good stead for the long term.