Pune FC goalkeeper surprised with India call-up

From being a trainee at the Pune Football Club Academy to getting his maiden call-up to the national football team, goalkeeper Amrinder Singh has come a long way.

Amrinder was pleasantly surprised after he was named in the 20-member national squad for the international friendly game against neighbours Bangladesh here Wednesday.

"There were mixed emotions. I felt good, proud that my dream was being fulfilled. At the same time it felt unreal. Only a month ago, I was training in the Under-22 National Camp (Bangalore) and wanted to cement my place at that level. However, this selection definitely came as a surprise," he said.

Amrinder got to know about his selection from Pune FC coach Mike Snoei.

"Actually, the coach was the one who told me about the selection first. He was very happy, proud and at the same time told me to give my hundred percent for the national team no matter what," he said.

The youngster said he would like to dedicate his maiden call up to Snoei and goalkeeping coach Glen Johnson.

"I would really like to dedicate this call up to my family, the Coach and also Glen Johnson, our goalkeeper coach and not forgetting Pune FC who believed and trusted my ability in this important position," he said.

Amrinder said his team mates have also wished him luck.

"My teammates are among the very best and have been wishing me luck. Not just that, the senior members in our team like Anas bhai, Venkatesh bhai, Arata and Sunny paaji (Gurjinder Kumar) have particularly told me to stay focused and work hard. It's really encouraging to get advice from senior players, players' who have been there and done that," he said.