Playing football outside Kolkata will be challenging, says Kotal

After having played for Kolkata-based football clubs in the Indian Super League (ISL) and the I-League, Delhi Dynamos' new full-back Pritam Kotal on Wednesday confessed it will be challenging for him to play outside the eastern metropolis.

"Looking forward to play in Delhi. Last 4-5 years I have spent in Kolkata with Mohun Bagan. This is a new season and I am out of Kolkata now. Looking forward to the new challenge now. It is a challenge for me to see how I do outside of Kolkata," Kotal said.

The 23-year-old won the ISL title with Atletico de Kolkata in 2016 and was part of the I-League winning side with Mohun Bagan back in 2014-15. He also won the SAFF Championship with India in 2015.

Kotal, who became the most expensive player for the capital-club at Rs 75 lakh, said he was confused if any club will pick him up during the ISL draft.

"I am excited about moving to Delhi Dynamos. Was a bit nervous initially whether someone will pick me or not, but I was delighted that I was the second pick for Dynamos. I am looking forward to this new challenge in a different city," Kotal said.

He also said last season's semi-finalists Dynamos have a good and energetic squad consisting of young players.

"We have a good squad, we have young players and this is what the coach also wanted. He wants to work with young players and I am very happy to be a part of the squad. I want to give my best and help the team," Kotal said.

"The Indian players that have come in are good and are energetic. We have a good young squad and we need to practice hard in the pre-season. We have to work hard both on and off the field," he added.

--IANS

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