THOSE WHO TRIED

Mohammed Salim’s what-could-have-been with Celtic is a folklore. But these are the players who tried their luck in developed football nations

SUNIL CHHETRI

India captain

The most recognised player on the Indian football circuit, Chhetri did not have a good outing when he ventured abroad. His career in the ‘B’ side of Sporting Lisbon of Portugal or at the Kansas City Wizards of the Major League Soccer, USA, failed to take off. Chhetri, however, has hit all the right notes in his current I-League side, Bengaluru FC and for Mumbai City FC where he made his ISL debut.

ROMEO FERNANDES

India international

The Goan had a breakout season in the first edition of the Indian Super League. His performance for FC Goa, under the guidance of Zico, raised expectations sky high, and was in a way responsible for his much-hyped move to Brazil’s Atletico PR. The move, however, proved disastrous, and he returned home prematurely.

SUBRATA PAL

India international

One of the most consistent performers India has produced in over a decade, the goalkeeper from Kolkata had all the attributes to succeed in Europe, save for his vertical handicap. Eventually, his relatively short stature was considered the major reason for his failure at Denmark’s FC Vestsjælland.

BHAICHUNG BHUTIA

Former India captain

Arguably India’s first football superstar, Bhutia had a first when he signed for Manchesterbased Bury FC in 1999. The talented forward, however, did not get much of playing time in his three years or so in England’s third tier, and returned to India. He had also tried his luck at Perak FC in Malaysia.