IGI Logo

FC Bengaluru United youngsters Shelton Paul and Srijith R, who have been selected to represent Karnataka in the 75th edition of Santosh Trophy, are aiming to perform well and make their mark in the ongoing tournament.

The Bengaluru-based club has garnered a reputation for bringing in and signing talents who are touted to be long-term prospects from the state.

In a recent interaction, Shelton, who is a winger, and goalkeeper Srijith spoke on how their time at FC Bengaluru United has helped them grow as players and how they are looking forward to carry their learnings into the historically rich tournament, which traces its origins to pre-Independence India.

"I would like to thank FC Bengaluru United for believing and showing faith in me and signing me up," Shelton said.

"Working with Richard Hood sir (Head Coach) has been a great opportunity. He has pushed me hard both on and off the pitch. This has helped me improve all around as a player and I am looking forward to representing my state," he added.

FC Bengaluru United, the BDFA Super Division League defending champions recently played in the I-League qualifiers, and were also invited to participate in the iconic Durand Cup. Competing these tournaments has helped the 22-year-old Shelton gain some vital experience.

"During those tournaments, I learned many things from the more senior and experienced players. They had a very positive impact on me and helped me grow as a player,'' the winger said.

For Srijith, playing in the tournaments was an inclusive learning experience.

"I personally took home immense tactics and game-ways from Kunzang Bhutia - pressure management, the way he was a rock for our team till the semis moved me and sharing a position with a player like him has helped me develop my skill set," he said.

"When you share a team with numerous experienced players who have played on an international level too, you tend to pick on their mindset and the knack of reading every opponent which is a huge requirement as a goalkeeper."

Karnataka has reached the semi-finals of the Santosh Trophy on two occasions but has never made it past this hurdle. But Shelton and Srijith believe the time is for them to finally go the distance.

"We have reached the semi-finals twice so this time we are hoping for gold and are confident we will achieve it," said Shelton.

Karnataka opened their Santosh Trophy campaign with a sparkling 4-0 win over traditional rivals Tamil Nadu.

"We take one game at a time and hope the results favour us," said Srijith.