Bhutia, who was on his way to Nepal, returned home from Siliguri, West Bengal, after he was informed about the demise of his sister´s father-in-law, Arjun Rai, the manager of Sikkim United confirmed during a telephone conversation with Republica on Monday evening.[break]
Bhutia was supposed to accompany his team, Sikkim United, to the Safal Pokhara Cup being held in Pokhara.
The club is playing against the host team, Pokhara XI, on Tuesday.
Bhutia has also expressed regret at not being able to come to Pokhara, according to team manager Rai.
"I was scheduled to come to Pokhara for the first time but could not come despite my willingness. I apologize for this and promise to come there as soon as possible," manager Rai quoted Bhutia as saying.
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