Veteran striker Sunil Chhetri has been recalled to the Indian national football team as head coach Khalid Jamil named a 30-man probables list for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers against Singapore. The squad features a mix of experienced internationals and emerging talents, as India prepares for two crucial fixtures in October.
Chhetri’s Comeback
Chhetri, India’s all-time leading goal scorer, was absent from the squad during the recent CAFA Nations Cup, but coach Jamil had assured fans that the door was still open for the 39-year-old icon. His inclusion now signals a strategic move to blend experience with youth in high-stakes matches.
Coach Jamil’s Selection Approach
Khalid Jamil, recently appointed as head coach, has shown a willingness to experiment, calling up several new faces during the summer tournaments. However, his latest selection suggests a more settled approach, with established names like Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Anwar Ali, Suresh Singh Wangjam, and Lallianzuala Chhangte joining Chhetri in the core squad.
Full 30-Man Probables
- Goalkeepers – Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Amrinder Singh, Gurmeet Singh
- Defenders – Anwar Ali, Rahul Bheke, Chinglensana Singh Konsham, Roshan Singh Naorem, Ricky Meetei Haobam, Pramveer, Muhammed Uvais, Hmingthanmawia Ralte, Bikash Yumnam
- Midfielders – Suresh Singh Wangjam, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Vibin Mohanan, Ashique Kuruniyan, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Danish Farooq Bhat, Mohammed Aimen, Nikhil Prabhu, Macarton Louis Nickson, Jithin MS
- Forwards – Sunil Chhetri, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh (Jr), Parthib Gogoi, Vikram Partap Singh, Muhammed Suhail, Mohammed Sanan K, Irfan Yadwad
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Match Schedule & Camp Details
India is set to face Singapore away on October 9, followed by the home leg in Margao, Goa on October 14. The preparatory camp kicks off on September 20 in Bengaluru, with players expected to report a day earlier. Footballers involved in AFC Champions League Two with Mohun Bagan SG and FC Goa will join the camp after their club duties conclude.
What’s at Stake
These fixtures are part of the second round of qualification for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. With a competitive group ahead, India needs strong performances to ensure progression and improve their regional standing.
Conclusion
Sunil Chhetri’s return not only boosts morale but brings vital experience to a squad in transition. With Jamil looking to stamp his identity on the team, the upcoming matches could define the next phase of Indian football.
Written by: Hubaish
