Houghton optimistic about India qualifying for World Cup

Panaji, June 20 (UNI) Newly appointed National football coach Bob Houghton today said if India brings up quality youngsters then a place in the World Cup was not a distant possibility.

Englishman Houghton (58), who took charge of the camp on his arrival in Goa yesterday, said, ''I believe we can certainly make improvements with the Indian team and see the country in the World Cup.'' Citing China's example which qualified for the World Cup in 2002, Bob, who before coming here was chief coach of Chinese Super League side Shenyang Jinda, said. ''We have to work hard and build a good team comprising youngsters.'' India iscurrently preparing for the first Nations Cup knock out tournament beginning on July 19 in Vancouver and also for the Asia Cup duels with Saudi Arabia and Japan later this year.

The camp will commence from tomorrow at Chowgule college's turf in South Goa and is likely to conclude on July 15.

Bob said, his first priority will be the Asia Cup and qualifying against Japan and Saudi Arabia would be based on the Vancouver tournament next month.

''I will interact with all 32 footballers in the camp and explain my coaching philosophy to them, which we will put into practice during the training,'' he added.

Meanwhile, Bob said he was happy with his new assignment, but maintained that it was a ''tough task'' for him.

UNI SRN MJ/GK PM VV1529