All India Football Federation president Praful Patel expresses serious concern over Elano episode in ISL final; assures action after receiving match commissioner's report
Praful Patel
Expressing serious concern at the unsavoury incidents that happened after the Indian Super League final in Goa yesterday, All India Football Federation president Praful Patel yesterday said he was awaiting the match commissioner's report before cracking the whip on the wrongdoers.
Praful Patel
"I am waiting for the match commissioner's report. It was an unfortunate incident and absolutely unacceptable. Nobody has the right to hold the football law into his own hands," Patel told reporters at the Cooperage stadium yesterday.
Goa police last night arrested Elano Blumer, captain of ISL-winning team Chennaiyin FC, for allegedly assaulting co-owner of FC Goa team Dattaraj Salgaoncar during post-match celebrations at Nehru Stadium at Margao after the game.
Taking strong exception to the brawl, the ISL yesterday said it does not accept 'such behaviour' and referred the matter to its disciplinary committee. 
Chennaiyin FC's Elano Blumer at the Margao police station after the ISL final in Goa on Sunday night. Pic/PTI
Patel, here to watch the practice match between the AIFF under-17 team that is preparing for the 2017 U-17 World Cup (to be hosted by India in two years' time) and its state (WIFA) counterparts, said the federation needs to send a strong signal to the international football community by the course of action taken.
"We have to be firm and strict so that it does not impact the international community, whether it is referees or players, from participating in India. We are also governed by FIFA's (world football governing body) code of conduct.
"If tomorrow, our player was to go and play in another country and something was to happen to him or the referee, what would be our situation? We have to take very strong measures. I have reacted very strongly and also consult AFC and FIFA on the next course of action. Guidelines have been given and will act according to them," Patel said.
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