Chand, who started professional football at the age of 16, counts his father and brother as his inspiration. He enjoys playing cricket and basketball while his other interests include photography, visiting new places and reading comic books. [break]
Playing for the national team, he says, is like a dream come true. “It’s a priceless achievement and I’m very proud to be a member of the national team,” he says.
We caught up with the young footballer, currently in Indonesia, via email to talk about football and his career.
Do you enjoy playing for the club in Indonesia? Tell us something about your career there.
I am enjoying playing football in Indonesia. The game here is more professional. I have already tested my football skills with two Indonesian super league clubs; first with PSPS Pekanbaru, and now with Persija Jakarta. I love it here and I’m confident that I will get more offers for the next session.
What has been the most memorable goal of your career?
The most memorable goal has to be the one against Nepal Army Club in the Budha Subba Gold Cup when I was in ANFA U-17. It was a free kick from 35 yards and the goalkeeper was Bikash dai (Bikash Malla). It is an unforgettable goal for me.
What differences do you see in the game between the two countries?
The football league of Indonesia is very professional. The Indonesian league is one of the best leagues of Asia. Many big players come to play here as there can be a good chance to mark individual progress and go to the next level that is K-League (Korea Professional Football League) and J-League (Japanese National Football League). But in the recent years, Nepal has improved and is doing well in football. Professionalism is developing. The fact that ANFA is really looking to improve its game and standard makes me very happy.
How often do you practice/train?
The training here is similar to that in Nepal. We have regular training on the basis of need. We practice for at least two hours, and sometimes even twice a day.
Who are your favorite players in Nepal and internationally?
I have always been a fan of Biraj Maharjan and I consider him my favorite Nepali footballer. Internationally, it’s Paolo Maldini. There’s no doubt that he is one of the best footballers.
What do you think makes you a good player?
Discipline, passion and dedication towards the game are very important qualities. I believe that one needs to have these qualities in order to be good at anything, and I always try to keep these three words in my mind. I also believe in never giving up.
How lucrative is the career of a football player,?
This is a very difficult question. I would say that it varies from player to player. At the moment, players are earning good money and their lifestyle has already changed. However, we cannot feel as secure as the other international football players. There is still something lacking which makes me worried about my own career.
If you were not a football player, what would you choose to be?
I would most probably be in the army, following my father’s footsteps. My father is an ex honorary Sub Major in the Indian Army.
What are your plans for the future?
My ultimatum goal is to play football in Europe. Apart from that, I want to put in some effort for the development of Nepali football.
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