Chirag’s ignominious exit

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Alas, the I-League journey has ended for Chirag United Kerala. The club has been nothing but a grooming ground where players were unearthed from nowhere, taught the tricks of the trade and then offered to rich clubs in the transfer market.

The transition from the Packeer Ali era to that under Biswajit Bhattacharya has been catastrophic. A revolt in the dressing room was brewing ever since and it is a pity that the new management failed to bury the hatchet.

“We never felt comfortable playing under the new coaching staff,” one of the players said on condition of anonymity. “Under (Nizam Packeer Ali), our position in the league wasn’t any better but at least the team had a bonding.

But not anymore,” he said. “Most of us have remained here uncertain of the future. Some of the players never wanted to leave the club, but they sold them.

Then they sacked Packeer Ali. How can we settle down if players and coaches are not given time to perform?” he questioned.

Technical director Biswajit who never shies away from the responsibility of the relegation and he apologises for failing to save the team.

“I take the responsibility. I could not keep my promise. But with this team it was always going to be difficult,” said Biswajit. “With more unfit players than the playing XI itself how can you expect me to work a miracle?”

Manager K. Prasanthan lashes out against Biswajit’s comment. “There were players --- several players who never got a chance under this new coach. When your key men are injured why don’t you give other kids a break?” he asked.

And he has a point as players like Noushad, Arindham Ghosh and S. Shahir, never got a break under the new coach.

Meanwhile, when Chirag lost to Pailan, watching from the stands of the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium were two former internationals, C.C. Jacob and M.M. Jacob. “It is a big loss for Kerala. It was a great feeling to come over here and watch the league. Sad end,” they said.