AIFF call for emergency meeting on Monday
With nine players of Dempo attending a training camp at Delhi for the Caribbean tour, the AIFF did not expect any complaint from the club. A letter, however, was addressed by Dempo to the AIFF on Friday asking it to release all players from the national camp.
With nine players of Dempo attending a training camp at Delhi for the Caribbean tour, the AIFF did not expect any complaint from the club. A letter, however, was addressed by Dempo to the AIFF on Friday asking it to release all players from the national camp, putting India's tour to the Caribbean next week in jeopardy. An emergency meeting was called by the AIFF on Monday in light of the differences which have cropped up.
"We are hoping that some sort of a compromise will be worked out with the clubs, but even if then the clubs remain adamant, I don't think the tour will be put off," said a senior AIFF official.
According to AIFF sources, the Indian team will leave for the Caribbean with a second string team to play three friendlies against the national team of Barbados, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago if a compromise does not work out.
Dempo's Sports Club vice-president, Manuel Rebello wote to the AIFF on Friday asking them to release their players who have been selected for the India camp as some of these players are carrying injuries and they are preparing for the Federation Cup and the upcoming I-League.
"We understand that some other clubs have also refused to release their players sighting similar reasons," stated Rebello.
Dempo's reaction is a direct fallout of reluctance from several other clubs including Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Pune FC and Salgaocar Sports Club to release players for what is now increasingly becoming an 'unfriendly tour' stated Rebello.
Dempo's Chairman Shrinivas Dempo also said the clubs are in a real dilemma and face serious difficulties.
The AIFF must realise this and ensure that club owners are taken into confidence whenever crucial decisions are being taken.