Federation Cup: I Will Give My Best And Leave It On God To Help Me Succeed - Karanjit Singh

Having conceded only just a single goal through a dubious penalty and having scored numerous on most occasions in the recently concluded Federation Cup 2011, Karim Bencherifa’s Salgaocar SC are on almost everyone’s books as the favourites to retain their I-League title.

One of the men who has played a significant role in Salgaocar's truimph has been his side’s shot-stopper Karanjit Singh, who with his superb performances has always done the Goan side proud. The Indian shot stopper was named in the prestigious 'Goal.com's Asian Player of the Month.'

“I feel very good. I read it yesterday and I was very excited about it. We always want to be the best in our country but being one of the best in Asia is absolutely incredible. Not every player gets such an opportunity, so, I feel marvellous about the achievement," he shared his excitement.

On keeping clean-sheets, he added, “It wasn’t only me but the whole defence which was good. Every one played for each other and supported each other. We all played as a team. It was a combined effort.”

Karanjit Singh made his debut for India in the 2014 World Cup Qualifier against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on July 23, 2011, coming off the bench when Subrata Paul was red carded. Following his impressive performances in the white and green of Salgaocar, he is bound to get a call a National call sooner rather than later. Speaking on the topic, he said, “Last time I gave my best, I’ll give my best this time as well and after that, if I get selected, it’s great.”

With the AIFF having approached Salgaocar SC to avail the services of Bencherifa for the India job which was rejected by the Goan side, Karanjit believes that the Moroccan coach would be a success whichever team he joins.

“Whichever club Karim has been to, he has always achieved. He has won the I-League and Fed Cup with us. He was good at Mohun Bagan and Churchill Brothers too. He is surely the best coach. He was also adjudged as the best coach from last season at the FPAI award ceremony. If he does become the Indian coach, I think it will be great for the country," he opined.

Karanjit Credits Bencherifa For Fed Cup Success

The Federation Cup saw several teams having unfit players, chief among them was Mohun Bagan, Karanjit credits his coach for the top class preparation in the pre-season.

“When we played in the Federation Cup, we were always very fit. The credit for this goes to the coach and the team management. Every club had the same time to prepare, although I do not want to comment on any other team’s fitness, but our coach started our training at the very right time and made us 100% fit for the Federation Cup. He made made us practice hard in short space of time and made sure that none of the players get injured and some days ago, I think they got their award," he said.

However Salgaocar lost to Sporting Clube de Goa in a Goa League match as the Flaming Oranje continued their good string of results over the Federation Cup champions.

“We had a decent game today but most of our first team players didn’t play. The game was 1-1 till the very last but then, our opponents were awarded a penalty, which they scored from and won the game 2-1.”

Karanjit promises his fans that he would be giving his all to make the highest grade in world football. “What can fans expect for me? A good performance in the I-League and the Asian Champions League for sure. I’ll give my 100% and then, leave it all to god and may he help me succeed.”

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