Delighted to become India’s record goal scorer on home soil – Sunil Chhetri

As per AIFF records, Sunil Chhetri became India’s all-time highest scorer on Tuesday after scoring the opener in the 2-0 win over Nepal at the Kanchenjunga Stadium in Siliguri. Sunil was personally congratulated by Bhaichung Bhutia whose record he broke and the current India captain expressed delight on achieving this feat in a home match.

“Yes I am delighted that I got the record in a home match. My mother was here and a few relatives and of course almost 20,000 fans. So it is a great feeling but I can’t forget the contribution of my seniors like Bhaichung. I always looked up to him and the other senior members and they encouraged me in every step. So a big thank you to all of them,” he stated.

The 29-year old though was quick to point out that a good team performance and result was the priority going into this game.

“The most important thing today was to perform as a team and implement whatever we have been working in training. It is great to be part of this team and I am happy that we could win this match after the disappointment of the SAFF Championship,” he said.

The Arjuna Awardee also praised his strike partner Robin Singh, who bagged two assists in the game, but said the former TFA graduate and even Jeje Lalpekhlua should be given more time to excel.

“You have to be patient with Robin as he is still very young. But it helps that he is my club teammate as well so we have a great understanding. He is a good player who can hold the ball up and our combination can only get better with time. Not just him, I share a good understanding with Jeje also so hopefully the three of us can keep doing well for the national team,” he concluded.