Debut for India was a magic moment, says Jackichand Singh

Royal Wahingdoh’s Jackichand Singh has been one of the best players in the I-League this season

NEW DELHI: There are a lot of positives to garner from the second coming of Stephen Constantine. While a jump from 173 to 147 in the latest FIFA Rankings is one, an influx of youth in the National Team Setup is most certainly another.

Royal Wahingdoh’s Jackichand Singh, dubbed as one of the latest sensations to come out of Indian football, spoke to www.the-aiff.com about the influence of Stephen Constantine, Wahingdoh’s dream run, the ongoing Hero I-League and much more.

How was the feeling when you made your debut for India?

When I started playing football, I had never imagined that I will play for my country. So, it felt out of the world when I got the India call. The debut was a magic moment and a proud moment for sure.

There has been an influx of youth in the national team set-up. What are your thoughts on the same?

It’s a motivation for all of us (youngsters) to be in contention and get selected for the national team. The national Coach has stressed that whoever plays well would get a call and that’s huge motivation for all.

And it’s not just the national team – youngsters are everywhere -- be it the Hero I-League or the Hero ISL and now in the national team. The young crop is trying their best and it’s a very positive trend.

How has Stephen Constantine helped you evolve into a better player?

I got the opportunity to train under him for a week during my stint with the national team recently and learned a lot. He has a knack of assigning players the spot on the field which they are best suited to. He also puts in a lot of effort to ensure that the boys adapt to their roles and looks to bring out the best in them during the games.

You have operated as a winger and even as a striker. Which is your favourite position?

I feel I fit well in both positions. I started as a central midfielder and later moved to the wings. The decision yielded results and I began converting on a regular basis. My job is to score and assist whatever be the position. I don’t have any favourite positions.

You have been a consistent goal getter in the Hero I-League. What’s the secret?

All credit goes to the Coach (Santosh Kashyap). I am simply following his instructions. My improved fitness level has also been crucial to my consistency. As you play more, you become confident and mature. A player also has to be lucky to score goals. I need to admit that I have been lucky in that aspect.

How much of practice does it take to convert those half-chances, which you are famous for scoring?

I mostly rely on speed and flexibility to convert the so-called half chances. It does not demand extended practice hours. I stay focused and work on my stamina.

How competitive is the Hero I-League this season and where do you see Royal Wahingdoh finishing?

The Hero I-League is always very competitive and all the teams have good players in their ranks. As debutants, we have done very well so far. The team has grown in confidence with every passing match and if we continue to perform in this fashion, the sky is the limit.