Comeback postponement a setback, but no complaints in current situation: Jeje

His national comeback plans delayed by the postponement of the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers, India forward Jeje Lalpekhlua is now training at his native Mizoram, where the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic is yet to make its presence felt.

The pandemic has led to either cancellation or postponement of all sporting events including the upcoming 2022 World Cup qualifiers. India's home match against Qatar (earlier slated for March 26) and other games against Bangladesh and Afghanistan in June have also been postponed.

"I was really looking forward to the camp in Bhubaneswar. The postponement has come as a big setback. But there's no room to complain and I fully stand by the decision taken," Jeje said.

Jeje, who has been on a rehab since May 2019, informed that he is itching to get back to action.

"I had a knee injury last season and had a surgery in May. My rehab has been complete. I can realise that I'm reaching an optimum fitness level gradually," he said.

"Initially I started my rehab in Chennai. Then I went abroad and the sessions were excellent. The doctor was really helpful and the physio did individual sessions every day. Sometimes, we had two sessions in a day which helped me recover faster," he said.

"Since I am in Mizoram now I am continuing individual sessions in consultation with the doctor and physios. I am working hard on my fitness now."