I-League is top priority now for Raegan

Having played for AGORC in the Chennai Football Association (CFA) Senior Division League, Raegan was signed up by the Chennai City FC, making his I-League debut against Mohun Bagan A.C. on 21 January 2017, having been substituted in the 80th minute. 

The skipper of the Tamil Nadu team for the Santosh Trophy said that the I-League experience has helped his hone his techniques. “The competition is higher in the I League when compared to the Chennai league. I had the opportunity to learn from other players during the practice sessions – be it techniques or fitness,” said the striker. 

Coach Robin Charles Raja, who shaped up the Chennai Customs and Hindustan Eagles teams that won the CFA in 2010 and 2012, is at the helm for Chennai City FC. The training sessions have been gruelling, conceded Raegan. “He (Robin) is an experienced coach, having led many teams  to victory. During the practice sessions, we divide into two teams and play a full match. I was a little disconcerted when I started training but now, coach has helped me fine-tune my techniques, when it comes to tackling and handling the ball. He is focusing on playing an attacking game,” said the footballer from Kanyakumari. 

Delving on the differences between playing for the Tamil Nadu league and the I-League, Raegan said, “The TN league has players of equal calibre. It is easier to play in and the challenges are limited. But in the I-League, you are competing against players who are much better than you. For me, it is a chance to improve my techniques, fitness and experiences.” 

Raegan heralds the I-League as a positive for Chennai football. “Those who have been performing well in Chennai and Tamil Nadu leagues have been chosen to play for Chennai City FC. Selections to the national team are done based on the I-League performances. More players from Tamil Nadu will get an opportunity to make it to the national team or the Indian Super League (ISL), if they perform well,” he said, adding that the owners of the Chennai City FC have been quite motivating. 

The team morale is quite positive, said Raegan, who has landed a job at the Accountants General’s Office. The footballer has a plan. “For now, I’m focussing on giving my best for the I-League,” he signed off.