'Nat'l football training centre to be set up in city'

Kolkata: Appreciating the effort of Mamata Banerjee government in developing "world class" infrastructure in the city for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) president Praful Patel said: "There are plans to set up a national football training centre in Kolkata".

He said: "I, on behalf of the AIFF and as the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee of the FIFA U-17 World Cup will recommend Kolkata shall be given special treatment. The city is home for football in India and this is the place where more passion comes for the game."

"I always like to see Kolkata high on the map of Indian football. In coming days we are hoping to set up a national training centre for football in Kolkata," he said adding that he had a preliminary discussion with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday in this regard and she agreed to extend all help to set up the training centre in the city.

It may be mentioned that a world class infrastructure has been created in the city for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup.

The Swami Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Kirangan has been given a complete new look for the event.

Patel went to the stadium on Thursday and inspected the facility. He expressed his satisfaction over the preparation.

The final match and the prize distribution ceremony will be held in the stadium.

Moreover, the delegation of FIFA and eminent people from all over the world is going to visit the city during the event.