Houghton to appear before AIFF panel on Monday

MARGAO: Bob Houghton will present himself before a four-member committee of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on Monday, and contrary to what many believe will not be armed with his resignation.
According to those in the know, the India coach has already prepared his defence -- after consultations with a lawyer from the Capital -- and is ready to ward off whatever the four-member committee throws at him during the meeting at the Football House in New Delhi.
Houghton, it may be recalled, was issued a show cause notice by the AIFF for his alleged racist comments against referee Dinesh Nair during an international friendly in Pune. Houghton has also been hauled for the poor performance at the Asian Cup 2011 in Doha where India shipped in 13 goals in three league matches.
"Houghton knows he is not wanted by the AIFF, although he is immensely popular with the players. The coach is now fighting for proper compensation and is ready for a legal battle," said a source is in the know of things.
According to sources, Houghton may seek a compensation of $1m (approx Rs 4.5 crore) and knows he has a legitimate case on hand since his contract, renewed last year, runs till 2013. Houghton draws an annual salary of $360,000 (approx. Rs 1.62 crore) besides the taxes and five-star hotel accommodation, tab for which is picked up by the AIFF.
The AIFF -- and that includes president Praful Patel -- have already made up their mind that Houghton must be shown the door, although many neutrals have questioned the manner in which the coach is being victimized.
"The racism allegation is hugely significant but it's only one part. There are several more allegations against Houghton which he needs to answer," said a source within the AIFF, without elaborating.
Meanwhile, a senior AIFF official laughed at Houghton's compensation claims of Rs 4.5 crore, instead said the coach can, at best, hope for a six-month salary (Rs 81 lakh).
With neither party seemingly willing to compromise -- unless it's on their terms -- this battle could be hard and long, and may ultimately end up at Zurich, at Fifa's headquarters.