Chandran still enthusiastic about football despite age and illness
KUALA LUMPUR: Neither age nor illness has dampened football legend Datuk M. Chandran’s enthusiasm for the national football team.
Chandran, 70, is now wheelchair-bound after suffering from a minor stroke in July. Four years ago, he was diagnosed with muscular atrophy in his left leg and he requires regular medical treatment.
But Chandran, who skippered the national team at the 1972 Munich Olympics, is still passionate about the game, especially the big strides made by the national team under coach Datuk K. Rajagopal.
“The national squad have shown vast improvement and we – the supporters, fans and critics – must join hands to continue supporting the team. We must give Rajagopal a chance to rectify the weaknesses in the team instead of crucifying him and the players,” he said.
Chandran also expressed hope that more local football talent will be unearthed and more parents will encourage their children to take up sports.
“It is regrettable that so many talents remain hidden among the young ones due to their parents’ over-emphasis on academic achievement, said Chandran, himself a father of two grown-up kids.
“During my time, studies were important but going outdoors to play football in the nearby field was also a daily activity.
“Today, so much importance is placed on studies, causing parents to send their children for many tuition classes. On top of that, computers and other electronic gadgets are keeping our kids out of the fields and indoors.”
He said that maintaining a healthy balance between studies and outdoor activities “is an essential element in a growing child’s life”.
Chandran said this after receiving a RM30,000 aid from MIC president Datuk Seri G. Palanivel yesterday.
Chandran said the aid would greatly ease his financial burden.
Palanivel said the aid was to honour and acknowledge the football icon’s contribution to the country.
Chandran also led the national team to a bronze medal at the 1974 Asian Games in Teheran. He also captained the side who won bronze medals at the 1969 and 1973 SEAP Games, silver medal in the 1971 SEAP Games and victory in the 1973 Merdeka Cup.