Williams’ move has opened door to more players: Khalid Jamil

Panaji: India coach Khalid Jamil has been tracking performances of at least three players who are willing to follow in the footsteps of Ryan Williams and represent the national team.
Williams, 32, surrendered his Australian citizenship and took up an Indian passport which made him eligible to represent the national team. The Bengaluru FC winger made his debut against Hong Kong and scored inside the first five minutes for India’s only win in the AFC Asian Cup final round qualifiers, where the team finished at the bottom.
Williams’ inclusion meant more firepower in attack, and Jamil is now convinced that adding a few more players could help turn the corner.
“Once we make these additions, there will be healthy competition for places,” Jamil told TOI on Saturday. “Williams has definitely opened the door for others. It’s a good sign.”
The India coach did not reveal the identities or status of the players. With Sunil Chhetri’s international retirement, a striker remains priority.
“I want to have a good look. Players will be selected only if we are convinced that the team will be strengthened. We are looking at players based on positions that we want to strengthen. There are three players. We are waiting for documents,” he said.
According to Jamil, at least one of the players will be included among the probables later this year.
“I have watched his matches and already given the go ahead. He is playing abroad and will be called here (to join the camp),” said Jamil.
Ahead of the clash against Hong Kong in Kochi on March 31, Jamil invited Academia del Balompie Boliviano defender Abneet Bharti to join the camp. The Nepal-born India passport holder plies his trade in the top tier of Bolivian football but could not got the nod.
“It was for a short time. I wanted to see him in a practice match,” said Jamil.
The India coach has now sounded out Som Kumar. The young former Kerala Blasters goalkeeper was the first to make a move to Slovenia where he joined first divisioners NK Radomlje and later joined ND Slovan.
Jamil had initially included Som among the 30 probables for the Unity Cup in London and tri-nation tournament in Tajikistan. However, experienced keepers like Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Vishal Kaith and Albino Gomes could not be left out due to their consistent performances in the Indian Super League (ISL), while Hrithik Tiwari was the preferred younger option.
“Som has played in India and (now) in Slovenia. Yes, he is in my list,” said Jamil.