Imphal, Oct. 15 (EMN): A day after seven Manipuri footballers who were part of the India’s first ever football team in the ongoing U-17 FIFA World Cup returned home, India goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem was accorded a warm welcome when he landed at Imphal International Airport on Sunday.
Many came to wish and garland Dheeraj for preventing the Indian team from losing by bigger margins in the ongoing World Cup matches. People of Bishnupur district also welcomed the young custodian at various locations on his way to his native town. In a reply to question, Dheeraj,a resident of Moirang town in Manipur’s Bishnupur district said, It’s the beginning of his career as he has to go a long way. Dheeraj will be preparing for the U-19 Asian qualifying game to be held in Saudi Arabia in November this year. After his recent performances, media reports emerged that two German clubs-one of them possibly Borussia Monchengladbach and a scout from Major League Soccer are keeping a close watch on Dheeraj. On Saturday U-17 Indian team captain Kiyam Amarjit led seven footballers who were also accorded a hero’s welcome when they arrived here. The other footballers are Boris Thangjam, Jeakson Thounaojam, Md Shah Jahan, Nongdamba Naorem,Suresh Wangjam and Ningthoinganba Meitei.
