Hockey coach in tears, flays Aslam Sher Khan

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Hockey coach in tears, flays Aslam Sher Khan

3 Feb 2009, 2311 hrs IST, PTI

CHANDIGARH: Selector Aslam Sher Khan’s comment on senior players had India’s hockey coach Harendra Singh in tears tonight.

After his wards beat Germany 2-0 in the ongoing Punjab Gold Cup, Harendra lashed out at Khan for his comments that selection of senior players in the national team would be reviewed.

Harendra said Khan’s irresponsible behaviour was unacceptable and it had “affected the morale of the team.” The coach questioned the timing of Khan’s comments and alleged that he was raking up the issue just to get media attention ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

“What is his contribution to Indian hockey? Moreover, what is his business to say such things in the middle of a tournament and when the team is performing well?” Harendra asked.

“His comments have affected the team’s morale. I will not accept such things,” he said.

Khan, a former Member of Parliament, had been quoted by a section of the media today as saying that national selectors would take a call on some senior players, recalled recently in the team for the ongoing tournament.

Among those under scanner are Deepak Thakur, Arjun Halappa, Dilip Tirkey and Vikram Pillay.

Harendra said that after great pains the team, which had touched its lowest ebb last year, was back on the revival course and “such comments will only do damage”.

He also said that Spanish coach Jose Brasa should immediately be appointed Indian team’s coach.

“I am prepared to work under Brasa. His appointment should be done immediately as it will be good for the team,” he said.

However, when contacted, Khan said that Harendra was overreacting and should behaved maturely.

“Although, the media report may have played up my comments but that does not mean the coach-in-charge should react and behave in such a manner.

“I know that my intention is positive. I have always wanted that the team should win. We should have hunger to win. History remembers only those who win. Nobody cares for losers,” he said.