Just watched the whole game of Portland vs. Stabaek. Gurpreet did not play a single minute and I must say, he has his work cut out and I am really disappointed he is coming to India. Two reasons... one, I believe this call-up says to him "It is okay that you don't play, as long as you are on a foreign team, you will be selected to play for the national team." and two, he would do better to compete at Stabaek with better coaching, players, and facilities than with India against Nepal (who don't even have proper training kits!!!)
Sayouba looked good! He is a very good goalkeeper and based on what I have seen from Gurpreet in the past, he really has to work hard. Sayouba is good enough to go to a higher league in the future but the question will be this: When Sayouba leaves, will Stabaek sign a new #1? Will this new #1 be older or a young guy? Or will they go and give Gurpreet the #1 spot?
I am not sure. At first I thought it was because Stabaek may have the season starting next week... at least that is when MLS starts and most leagues that follow the Spring to Fall schedule start next week but Norway actually starts in April... Stabaek still have friendlies to play.
Portland may not be the best team there but they definitely had the flairiest attack and also the massive home support at their home stadium. I am guessing both teams decided to treat this game as a real one and thus did not change keepers because Portland did not as well.
These guys went to cheer for him after my request !
Shubhodeep (jerseY) who plays in city league there Said " Thanks Gurpreet for being so mice and hanging out during halftime and post game. Nice to meet your fellow players at stabaek who are good buddies with you. Hope to see u make Indian football proud even more soon. Jai hind.
And cheering with Indian flag held high...people around us frag thought we are cheering for cricket world cup because they have never seen an Indian flag at MLS game. But we told everyone stabaek has Gurpreet (Indian Football team goalkeeper)
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Let him play in Norway for couple of years..