Ghosts of last year have vanished: Robin

The state team, under A. Robin Charles Raja, is geared up to go through the rigours of the qualifiers starting at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on February 9.

Tamil Nadu, who had a brilliant run in the 2014 edition before losing to Mizoram in the semifinal, failed in the qualifiers last year as the team was in turmoil due to selection and coaching issues that dented their progress. Under the able guidance of Robin, the Tamil Nadu team started their preparations at the Gateway International School, on the outskirts of the city last Monday. 

Robin sounded optimistic on his team’s groundwork and said the unit is a confident lot. “I am happy that each and every one of us have put the ghosts of last year behind us. Our focus from day one has been on qualifying and the training has been largely smooth and peaceful,” Robin added. 

Robin, who guided Hindustan Eagles to the Chennai Football Association senior division title last year, said the football association has given him a free hand. 

“I am enjoying my stint. I get what is required to build a strong team and that is vital in shaping up for the future. A couple of practice matches has helped me asses my team’s performance and I am happy the way we are progressing,” Robin said. 

However, a gap in the central midfield has left Robin working overtime to plug the loophole. “We will be missing the services of L. Charles Anandraj and P. Sudhakar as Charles is representing Indian Railways and Sudhakar has opted out of the tournament for his wedding. I have to get back to the drawing board to get my combinations right as missing out on the two is a big blow,” the Tamil Nadu coach added. Robin is happy to have N. Mohanraj in the squad and he is the only player who has participated in the Indian Super League. 

“His experience will be a huge plus for all the others who aspire to reach the heights. The players look up to him for suggestions as he has improved by leaps and bounds by rubbing shoulders with some big names in football. His addition to my squad is inspirational,” Robin added.