Touting the call of newly crowned I League champions Aizawl FC to go on a hunger strike as unfair, president of AIFF Praful Patel said today that the federation has not yet finalised a new road map for the game, and they will not be scared of threats.
“Aizawl cannot complain. They won the I League only because a relegated team was included in it. If they complain it’s unfair and threats won’t work,” AIFF chief told reporters.
“Aizawl was relegated in 2016. It was the AIFF which saw the passion (in the club) and let them play in I League as a special dispensation. I congratulate every one who has contributed to their success. AIFF has also supported them,” Praful Patel said.
“They have said they sent a letter (to AIFF) which I have not seen. (Meanwhile) threats are issued, but AIFF does not get intimidated by threats. The road map of Indian football and what will be the structure next year have not yet been decided. Today I League is the official League. Why are they then giving threats,” curiously added Patel.
“Till a new road map is decided the old one continues. Why is somebody complaining? You cannot complain on a hypothetical situation. But if they want to shout let them shout, we are not going to be intimidated.
“In future every club has to support its own funding and AIFF has no role in clubs’ structure. It’s their own domain. Now they will qualify for AFC Cup and we will be happy to see an Indian club doing well there.
“AIFF will take all decisions based on the good of Indian football which does not belong to A or B club. We are absolutely clear and transparent. They have won the I league will continue to play in the I League,” he said.
