New Delhi: Former England attacking midfielder David Platt has singled out India footballers Eugenson Lyngdoh and Jackichand Singh for special praise, saying they are up there with their fancied counterparts from Europe.
Platt, who has scored three goals in the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy, will be managing FC Pune City in the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL).
"I think the Indian players are really very good as simple as that. They are exceptional with their industry and enthusiasm. They might not be as technically gifted as the European lot but 3-4 of them are up there," Platt said before adding, "Eugen and Jacki are up there. Gouramangi Singh is an absolute professional and dedicated to his work. I couldn't ask for more."
Besides representing the England national team, Platt had had stints at top clubs such as Juventus and Arsenal.
His coaching career includes manging Manchester City and Sampdoria among others.
Asked about the team's preparations, the 49-year-old said, "Everything is going on really well. Everyone is liking it here in Turkey - the facilities are excellent and we've decided to extend our stay here and we hope to be back in India in the best post possible shape. Mutu and all the other signings are exceptional talents and we have a really good squad."
He called his team one of the title favourites.
"We've gone on and bought well. We have brought in the targets that we've wanted. I have said this before and I will say this again, we will be among the favourites." When asked about expectations, Platt said, "I have no problem with expectations. We will have to work hard and do well, simple as that. We have a very talented squad and we will be up for the challenges. Expectations are not a problem."
Platt said his team will play attacking football.
"We are looking to keeping it simple really. When you have the ball you got to score, when you don't you have to defend and get the ball back. It's about passing it around and getting into the opponents faces and ultimately winning matches."
