Jamshedpur FC and Indian National Team defender, Narender Gahlot caught up with us for a brief chat after NorthEast United FC held the team to a draw with some late match drama at the Furnace last night. The youngster was visibly disappointed with the result of the contest, however, believes the team will bounce back with a vengeance when Chennaiyin FC visit the JRD Tata Sports Complex, next week.

The 18-year-old has moulded into the defence line in a fine manner after finding a spot in Antonio Iriondo’s starting eleven for the second consecutive time this season. Gahlot, who had been away for National duty, returned to the Jamshedpur FC set up only a couple of weeks ago, and claims to “feel very much at home,” here in Jamshedpur.

What went wrong against NorthEast United FC last night?

I think we could have scored more, a 1-0 lead was great to have but 2-0 or 3-0 would have been a lot nicer. I think we became a little lax towards the final minutes of the contest, one moment of lost concentration cost us full points. We need to stay focused throughout the 90 minutes. We also had a lot of miss passes in the second half, we could have avoided the equaliser had we focused on the little and basic aspects of the game. We drew at home last night when we could have easily won the match.

You have been a part of the Indian National Football Team for a while, have even scored. What do you think the Blue Tigers are lacking at the moment, to achieve the ultimate goal of playing in the FIFA World Cup one day?

I feel we are not far from that day but I do believe we need to be patient and give time to the coach (Igor Stimac) and just trust him. The best coaches need time, not just in India, even if top teams like Spain or Brazil have a new coach, they are bound to take time to settle in and deliver results. Even when it comes to Coach Stimac, he wants us to do better and give our 100% each time we step on the field. We have improved from when we started, and the only way from here is up. If you compare our current style of play to the previous times, you will realise the progress the team has made and how good the play looks - passing, keeping ball possession - these are important aspects of football and we have been working hard to be better, the results will follow soon.

What is it like to play for Jamshedpur FC?

Jamshedpur FC is like being at home. Be it the players, coaching staff or even the food that we eat - I feel very much at home. Though it has only been a couple of weeks since I have joined the set up here in Jamshedpur after returning from the National Team camp, it feels like I have known everyone for ages.