📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Mehdi Zare
Sports
Sandesh Jhingan vows hard work to reclaim spot in India’s football squad
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 18 Sep 2026, 04:16 AM
👁 9
Defender Sandesh Jhingan says only hard work can earn his return to the senior Indian team after a recent setback.
Veteran centre‑back Sandesh Jhingan, who has been a regular feature in India’s senior football side, acknowledged that his path back to the national squad will be paved only by sustained effort. After missing recent international fixtures due to a fitness setback, the 31‑year‑old is concentrating on rebuilding his form at the club level.
Jhingan emphasized that rigorous training, disciplined lifestyle and consistent performances in domestic competitions are essential to catch the selectors' attention. He added that the Indian team’s upcoming fixtures present an opportunity, but only if he proves his readiness on the field.
The defender’s resolve reflects a broader trend among Indian players who view hard work as the primary lever for regaining or retaining national team places. Fans and analysts alike will be watching his progress in the Indian Super League as a barometer for his potential recall.
Jhingan emphasized that rigorous training, disciplined lifestyle and consistent performances in domestic competitions are essential to catch the selectors' attention. He added that the Indian team’s upcoming fixtures present an opportunity, but only if he proves his readiness on the field.
The defender’s resolve reflects a broader trend among Indian players who view hard work as the primary lever for regaining or retaining national team places. Fans and analysts alike will be watching his progress in the Indian Super League as a barometer for his potential recall.