PANCHKULA:
Real Kashmir FC
's rise to the
I-League
's first division has been nothing short of incredible. And, a lot of credit for that goes to ex-Rangers footballer
David Robertson - presently the coach of Real Kashmir. Robertson is being hailed as the architect of
RKFC
's success.
The Scotsman took charge of Real Kashmir in January 2017 and within a year helped the team win the I-League second division title.
It was a huge challenge for Robertson to make sure a team that had a lot of diversity gel together.
"I have never managed a team with so much diversity. We have Muslims, Sikhs, Hindus and Christians in the team. All of them speak different languages. And then add the foreign players, who come from Nigeria and Ivory Coast. Initially, it was very tough for me, but I am glad that I stuck to the job and so far it has been a rewarding experience," the 50-year-old Scotsman told TOI.
Robertson had to go that extra yard to ensure there was camaraderie in the team.
"When I came here, I hardly used to see lads smiling or cracking a joke in the team bus. It was quite weird for me. I then realized I will have to go that extra yard to make sure the players consider each other as their family. Slowly and steadily, things started to change," said Robertson.
Talking about his interesting experiences with the team, Robertson said, "Due to the prevailing situation in Srinagar, we could train only on certain days. So, once I kept a training session on Friday and no one showed up. Later, I came to know that Friday is auspicious and the lad was performing their prayers," said Robertson.
"During the pre-season, one day it was raining heavily and none of the local lads turned up for training. Their excuse was that they travel on motorbikes; therefore their parents didn't allow them to leave because they might fall ill," Robertson added with a chuckle.
Asked what does Indian
football
lack, Robertson replied, "The talent level is quite high. The only thing holding football back in India is lack of proper information. Indian footballers need more exposure, but I must say that I like their willingness to learn. They work really hard and follow whatever instructions they're give."
Robertson has taken a liking for Srinagar. "It was difficult in the beginning and I wanted to go home within the first few days. I had never been to India before. There were power cuts. And, turning up in Kashmir during the winters is probably the worst time one can come. But, now when I was in Scotland for three months I was missing Srinagar like anything. I have struck a chord with Kashmir," he said.
Robertson's son Mason is also a member of Real Kashmir. "I coached him for six years in the United States, so I know what I'm getting on and off the pitch," he said. "I gave the owners (of Real Kashmir) a list of players and left them to decide. It's not easy being away from home and family, but Mason being here with me is quite relieving," he added.
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