I feel stronger and fitter than ever: Bengaluru FC striker Udanta Singh

Bengaluru FC striker Udanta Singh in training at the Bangalore Football Stadium following his return from a developmental training stint at English League Two side Oxford United FC

Bengaluru: Having completed a four-month training stint at current English League Two leaders Oxford United, Bengaluru FC striker Udanta Singh says he can’t wait for the new season to begin. Having trained under Michael Appleton, who previously worked alongside Blues’ gaffer Ashley Westwood, the 19-year-old says he feels stronger and fitter than ever.

“I was told that Michael Appleton had previously worked with the gaffer so the coaching style was easy to get used to at Oxford United. It was a great learning experience and I’m very thankful to the club for sending me there,” said Udanta.

From Bengaluru to Oxford, a lot changed on the pitch as it did off it. Udanta says that training with Appleton’s side has made him a better player.

“Everything was more aggressive in training at Oxford. There were no friends on the pitch and it has taught me a lot. Appleton was very vocal with his instructions, teaching me how to position myself every time and how to better make use of my off-the-ball running,” he added.

With adequate game time at a higher level under his belt and returning to a Blues side that has signed many players, Udanta explains how competition for places highlights the importance of his stint at Oxford.

“I played a few friendly games with Oxford and I feel much stronger now. Last season at Bengaluru FC started with an injury and I’m grateful to the gaffer for giving me a few games. But, now I feel fit and with all the new players who have come in, I’ll need to work harder and I’m ready for that challenge,” Udanta says.

Westwood thanked the club and Oxford United for giving his striker the opportunity to train and gain valuable experience.

“We’re thankful to the club and to JSW for allowing the opportunity to come around and for looking after Udanta by arranging his trip. We’re also thankful to Michael Appleton and Oxford United for giving him the opportunity to train in a professional setup run by very good coaching staff,” Westwood said.

The gaffer added that he has already noticed a change in Udanta’s game and that he expects him to be an important part of the squad for the coming season.

“He’s come back now and I can see a difference in him already even after just three or four days with us. It looks like he’s toughened up and learned a bit more about his body and that was always the aim.

“We’re hoping to build on that and hopefully he’ll have a successful season with us. He’s done his job there and he’s going to be a good asset for us for years to come.”