Locals key to Fed Cup success, says Kings captain Tapu
After leading Bashundhara Kings to Federation Cup title defence as captain, central defender -- even becoming the joint-top scorer -- Tapu Barman was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player. The 30-year-old had also claimed best-player honours in the season-opening Challenge Cup final. In an interview with The Daily Star's Anisur Rahman, Tapu reflected on his personal form, Kings' turbulent season, and the state of domestic and national football. Excerpts from the interview are given below:
The Daily Star (DS): Despite a rocky season after the Challenge Cup win, how did Kings manage to retain the Federation Cup?
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Tapu Barman (TB): We lost all three matches in the AFC Challenge League… but we gained good experience in Bhutan. We made a good start in the domestic season by winning the Challenge Cup. We also had a flying start in the league but could not maintain the momentum… So, it has been a challenging season for Kings, but we proved that we are still the best by lifting two trophies.
DS: How did the signing of foreign players mid-season help Kings following the withdrawal of the FIFA transfer ban?
TB: Those who were signed in the mid-term window are not of the same level as Brazilian Miguel Ferriera… Without the effort of the local players, it was not possible to win the Federation Cup.
DS: What caused Kings' inconsistent performance in the Bangladesh Premier League?
TB: The league is a long race, and you have to show consistency in every match… Now, our target is to finish second in the league.
DS: Did the departure of coach Oscar Bruzon affect the team's performance?
TB: We had foreign players like Robson, Dorielton and others during Oscar's tenure, unlike this time. In my opinion, Valeriu Tita is also a good coach.
DS: Did the withdrawals of Sheikh Jamal DC and Sheikh Russel KC reduce the league's competitiveness?
TB: Of course, the competitiveness has been reduced while a lot of players had to suffer financially. It has also been a big setback for the country's football.
DS: Did you accept a pay cut after the political changeover on August 5?
TB: We still stick to the contracts we had before August 5. Despite the crisis moments from the start of the season, the club management tried their level best to provide the facilities.
DS: With the domestic season ending soon and the national team's Asian Cup qualifiers ahead in June, what are your thoughts?
TB: There was huge uncertainty over the start of the domestic season, but in the end, it has been a big prize for the footballers because the season is still going on.
The arrival of Hamza Choudhury lit up Bangladesh football and it is a positive wave for the country's football. Securing all three points against Singapore is very important for us if we want to qualify for the next round. I believe we can do it because we grew in confidence after Hamza joined the squad.
DS: How do you view the potential inclusion of expatriate players like Shamit Shome and Cuba Mitchell in the national team?
TB: I think the national team is the highest place to play, and the best players will represent the nation. It is good news that they are interested in representing Bangladesh. The inclusion of them will strengthen the squad further, and the local players will also learn more by playing alongside them.
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