Gurpreet Singh Sandhu Joins Elite Indian Footballers to Play in European League

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu joined an exclusive Indian club of footballers to play in an European league. The 23-year-old made his debut for Norwegian club Stabaek against Runar in Tippeligaen league on Wednesday night.

Sandhu has joined Mohammad Salim, Baichung Bhutia, Sunil Chhetri, Renedy Singh, Gouramangi Singh, Subrata Paul, who have all played for European teams. Mohammad Salim, once considered a wizard from Mohammedan Sporting, had played for top-flight Scottish team Celtic F.C., while Bhutia had played for English team Bury F.C.

Sandhu, who kept a clean sheet to help Stabaek thrash Runar 6-0, said his patience paid off. He joined the club in August last year.

"I'm really proud and happy that it happened. I was waiting for the chance -- the team won, that's the main thing and (I got) a clean sheet and I thank the team for that," Sandhu told the club's website.

"I'm the only Indian player to play for a top division club in Europe so... I'm lucky," he said. He has played for top I-League clubs East Bengal and Pailan Arrows.

The 23-year-old goalkeeper later tweeted and thanked coach Bob Bradley, former United States manager, for the opportunity.

"Happy to get a clean sheet on my debut for @Stabaek tonight - thanks coach!," tweeted Sandhu.

Happy to get a clean sheet on my debut for @Stabaek tonight - thanks coach! #HitForSix #ProudIndian

- Gurpreet Singh (@GurpreetGK) April 22, 2015