He's only 17 but Abhijit Sarkar – who represented India in the FIFA Under-17 World Cup – wants job security that will help him secure financial stability for his family.
"Every state like Manipur, Mizoram have given cash incentives in lakhs to the players. And Bengal is the home of Indian football. We have done so much and I feel we also deserve to get something. I hope the state government helps us as well," Abhijit said after his arrival in Kolkata on Friday.
The three Bengal teenagers including Rahim Ali and Jitendra Singh returned home on Friday after India's historic U17 World Cup debut.
The India No 10 had an impressive game against Colombia and almost gave them a first half lead but missed the target by a whisker, when his strike from an acute angle was blocked by Kevin Mier as they lost out 1-2.
"It's really disappointing that I missed the target. I will regret this miss forever. I gave my best but still missed out. I could not believe myself that I had missed it but that's part and parcel of the game," he rued.
"But we played well (vs Colombia) and lost. It's a way forward for the Indian football. The coach (Luis Norton de Matos) has given chances to everyone. The support staff is happy with our performance," he added.
Abhijit also hoped he gets to play a big club in his ultimate aim to represent India seniors.
Now it’s time to graduate to the next level and play for India seniors but before that I would like to get a good club. Also, I am in search for a job now, my parents are old and it’s time that I look after them. It would be real help if the government helps us.Abhijit Sarkar
Abhijit’s father works as a van-rickshaw driver and seasonally as a tailor, and his mother binds cheap cigarettes at a local grocery shop. Though they struggled to make ends meet, Sarkar’s parents encouraged him to play football but also wanted him to balance it with his studies.
Abhijit came to the fore during the 2017 European exposure tour where he scored against Italy XI and later netted thrice against Valmontone City in the group stage of the Lazio Cup.
Remembering his hardships on how his childhood coach bought him a pair of boots, he added:
It’s been a tough journey to the World Cup. I have sacrificed many things since childhood. My parents and coach have supported me throughout my career.
"There was a time when I did not even have boots but my coach bought it for me and supported me. I will never be able to forget those days of hardship. Dad never said no even if he was unable to afford something. I am grateful to my parents," he concluded
(With inputs from PTI.)
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)