Hope to be an ideal example for youngsters: Sunil Chhetri

What’s your feeling after being awarded the AIFF Player of the Year for the fourth time?

It’s humbling to be awarded the prestigious Award for a record fourth time. I’ve said this before and reiterate that while the accolades and Awards may be fulfilling, it is the love for doing what I do best that keeps me going.

There are some great names in the list who have received the Award earlier and winning it for the fourth time makes me feel proud and motivated enough to do better. If you look at the list there have been many whom I have been lucky to play along with and there have been some whom I have always looked up to during my school days.

How significant is it to be voted by the Coaches from all I-League Clubs.

It means a lot to me. It’s an inspiration to further improve and meet the responsibilities and expectations which come along it. That all the Coaches found be competent to receive the Award is a huge honour for me.

Whom do you want to thank for the Award?

There’s a gratitude list that I will always make a mention and it comes from my heart. I need to thank the All India Football Federation and all the Coaches from I-League Clubs for finding me worthy of the honour.

My Teammates from my Club Bengaluru FC have always believed in me believing that I will step up and deliver as have all my Coaches – past and present. I also need to thank every single person -- right from the kit managers to the top bosses for always hoping that I succeed.

What does this Award change for you?

I hope I can be an ideal example of a Professional Footballer for youngsters who look up to me. I am, and will be a student of the game forever.

Image: AIFF Media