NEW DELHI: Former Indian captain Bhaichung Bhutia has been inducted to the AFC’s Hall of Fame.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has received a letter from Dato Alex Soosay, General Secretary, AFC confirming that Bhutia is the only Indian to be inducted to the AFC’s Hall of Fame.
“The AFC is celebrating its 60th anniversary in the Philippines on November 30 this year where a joint event will take place to celebrate the anniversary as well as reward Asia’s finest at the AFC Annual Awards,” the letter from the AFC states.
“It is my pleasure to announce that India’s legendary player Bhaichung Bhutia has been selected to be honoured as an inductee to the AFC’s Hall of Fame,” the letter adds.
Joining the former Indian captain will be another nine players from across the continent. Bhutia has been often referred to as the torch-bearer of Indian football. He has made 107 international appearances for India between 1995 and 2011 while scoring 42 goals. The striker had spells with English side Bury FC and Malaysia outfit Perak FA.
“It’s a great honour for me. I need to thank the AFC for finding me competent enough. I also need to thank the AIFF for their continuous support. This award would not have been possible without the support of all my teammates whom I played with and also the coaches for their guidance and support over the years,” Bhutia said.
Praful Patel, President, AIFF said: “Bhaichung has been the flag-bearer of Indian football in over 100 international matches. Post retirement, he has been closely associated with AIFF and we expect to work closely for the development of the sport in the country.”
