Before senior national football team’s forthcoming World Cup qualifier against Kuwait on 16th November at their home, chief national coach Igor Stimac, speaking to the All India Football Federation’s official website, revealed that he has tried to bring the balance and strength in the team in absence of three crucial footballers, Ashique Kuruniyan, Anwar Ali and Jeakson Singh during the preparatory camp. 

He stated, “We know that the next few months until March will be very difficult. We might face some problems during this process. But we are very optimistic then that once the players, who are missing now, are back, we will become solid again and show strength on the pitch, So, the focus at the moment is how to replace those boys who were starting 11 players, such as Ashique Kuruniyan, Anwar Ali and Jeakson Singh. Now we need to find a way to make a new composition to balance the team which will provide strength, especially at the back because we started conceding some goals, which I did not like lately, although some of the goals came after very poor refereeing decisions.” 

Igor however had appreciation for Mahesh Naorem Singh in the discussion. Mahesh had consistent performance for national team, especially in India’s away matches in recent times. 

Stimac commented, “I am very happy with him. He's one of those players who is enjoying his football with the full potential. He's a very talented player, he doesn't have any fear or problem while coming in front of the goalkeeper." 

"The easy approach he has when he comes in front of the goal and scores goals is something that is bringing and adding an extra quality to our team. Mahesh is the player at the moment we are looking up to and who is giving us extra stability in this position as a first option and is giving us extra quality in passing, holding the ball and providing chances and key passes.”

However, it is learned that Mehtab Singh and Rahul Bheke might be included in the first eleven against Kuwait.