Indian international Gouramangi Singh is set to return to India’s preparations for the 2011 Asian Cup after missing out on a contract with Melbourne Heart FC.
Indian international Gouramangi Singh is set to return to India-s preparations for the 2011 Asian Cup after missing out on a contract with Melbourne Heart FC.
The 24-year-old central defender completed an extended trial with the Club, travelling to the Gold Coast as part of Heart-s pre-season training camp, impressing with his professionalism and driven approach.
Gouramangi-s dedication earned him a starting berth against Brisbane Roar, playing the full 90 minutes in the Heart-s second ever match.
Head Coach John van ‘t Schip praised Gouramangi-s commitment and work ethic in attempting to become only the fourth Indian footballer to ever win a professional football contract outside of India.
“Gouramangi made a real impression on the coaching staff throughout his trial with the Club, showing great spirit and character in the way he conducted himself,” he said.
“Gouramangi would have been competing with the likes of( Qantas Socceroos) Michael Beauchamp, who was magnificent against Serbia at the FIFA World Cup, and Simon Colosimo for a place in the starting side, which is a tough task for any player.
“With this in mind and Gouramangi-s need to be playing regular football leading into the Asian Cup, clearly it-s best for him to spend time preparing with the Indian national team .”
Van ‘t Schip paid tribute to Gouramangi-s spirit of adventure in pursuing his dream of securing a contract beyond India, predicting he has a bright future.
“‘Mangi has been a tremendous ambassador for Indian football throughout his time at the Club, and we would like to wish him all the best for his future endeavours,” he said.
“I will certainly look forward to watching ‘Mangi taking to the field in Qatar when India face the Qantas Socceroos during the upcoming Asian Cup and we will certainly continue to track his progress and that of other Indian footballers.”
