A training squad is set to head into camp next month and National Youth League board chairman Rajesh Patel says everything will be done to make sure they prepare in the best possible manner for the event.
“An U-17 squad of 40 has been selected and will later be trimmed down to 25,” Patel says. “We are in a difficult situation this time around as players have got school exams and we will only be able to bring the squad together in November after the exams.”
“As the playoffs are in January, it gives us a very small time frame to get the teams ready but nonetheless I have confidence that we will prepare a strong side.”
Patel says the coaching staff are still on the look-out for any talent that may have slipped through the net.
“We are happy with the players selected but the door is still open,” he says.
“We might have missed some talent. Part of our social obligation is that we will try to develop young people on and off the field so that they refrain from illegal activities.”
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