18 August,2009 11:35 AM IST | | PTI
Bhaichung Bhutia's hopes to resolve his problems with Mohun Bagan before the Nehru Cup on Wednesday took a beating, as the Club remained adamant on his six-month suspension even after talks with the All Indian Football Federation on Monday.
India captain Bhutia had pleaded an early solution to the issue, saying he was unable to concentrate on the preparations for the Nehru Cup, beginning August 19.
But Mohan Bagan Secretary Anjan Mitra in his discussion over the issue with AIFF Secretary Alberto Colaco refused to change the decision on the player's six-month suspension without salary which means that the striker will have to wait to join East Bengal.
"He has been suspended for six months and there is no change in the decision. His suspension will continue and I don't want to add anything further," Mitra told reporters after the two-hour closed-door meeting.
"Not only Baichung, we are also upset and want to save the face of Indian football. Baichung has signed the contract with the club for three years and that will expire in 2010. So we expect him to play for our club for the 2009-10 season and there is no question about that".
"Colaco has assured us that he will take the appropriate decision depending on the situation," Mitra added.
Colaco did not look confident of finding a solution but said he was doing everything which he could to resolve the issue.
"I have been asked to look into the issue and create an amicable environment to resolve it. I am trying my best and think it will be in the interest of Indian sports.
"I have highest regard for both Baichung and Mohan Bagan club and that's why I accepted to look into the matter. May be I'll not succeed, but I'll try my best," Colaco said.
Colaco also lambasted media for blowing the issue out of proportion and making the issue public.
"Press is blowing this issue out of proportion. Please understand, this is not an issue to be discussed in public. It's an internal matter, but for you all, it would be a great news.
"I will not share what I have discussed with them. Don't give me deadlines to resolve the issue because tomorrow, if I'll give you the date, then you will ask me have you resolved it? I don't want to take this issue at a point from where things will go out of my hands and for people involved in it," Colace said angrily.
Bhutia was handed a showcause notice by Mohun Bagan for not travelling with the team to play an exhibition match in Jalpaiguri.
