Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia today hit out at East Bengal for sacking celebrated Indian coach Armando Colaco in the middle of an I-League football season.
"I don't think it's fair to sack a coach after just six matches. That means the club officials made a wrong choice in picking the coach. You should have given some more time to Colaco," the torch bearer of Indian football said.
Having announced his decision to retire from club football in East Bengal jersey, Bhutia further said he's ready to help out the Eelco Schattorie's boys' who are struggling with two wins from six matches and slipped to sixth place.
"Even if I'm not playing I want to sit with the players. They have a new coach now and if at all I can help them out anyway I'll be happy. I want them to help out."
The 38-year-old said he's hoping to join the red and gold brigade next month but don't want to be a burden on the team.
"For me, I'm just coming back to retire. I need to be fit as well, love to play derby. I can't run around with a stick. Hopefully I would join somewhere in March."
Mohun Bagan are unbeaten and lead the table and Bhutia said both the city rivals have it in them to win the I-League.
"Definitiely Mohun Bagan have a very bright chance. But East Bengal too can win, their new coach will need some time to settle down. Both teams have chances. It's not going to be easy. With 11 teams in fray, this time the I-League is not going to be very big."
He further urged the city clubs to be more organised rather than indulging in a blame game.
"On the whole, clubs like Mohun Bagan and East Bengal have to organise. It's very difficult for a new coach to understand players' mindset, their strengths and weaknesses. It's always easy to complain but if you organise your own backyard you'll be better prepared," Bhutia said.
"You need to plan and organise well to take the club into the right direction. After ISL, the I-League clubs may face some problems and we need to catch up.
