With India’s U-17 custodian Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem confidence bolstered after a stint with former England goalkeeper David James, he left for a trial at Scottish Premiership club Motherwell FC on Wednesday. His training sting starts on Thursday.
Dheeraj, who manned India’s post at the FIFA U-17 World Cup at home last year, quit Indian Arrows, the All India Football Federation’s developmental squad playing in the I- League, after the end of his contract on 31 December 2017.
And while Arrows’ Portuguese coach Luis Norton de Matos was disappointed by his decision, a stint with James at the Indian Super League (ISL) franchise Kerala Blasters has been encouraging.
According to Dheeraj’s agent Anuj Kichlu, the 17-year-old goalkeeper from Manipur will train with Motherwell FC’s first team.
If he manages to impress the coaches at Motherwell FC, Dheeraj will still have to wait till July, when he turns 18, to obtain an international transfer.
Motherwell’s interest in the Indian goalkeeper grew after his impressive showing at the U-17 World Cup.
Dheeraj’s trial in Scotland is expected to be for three weeks.
The goal-keeper played an important role for India in the Under 17 Fifa World Cup last year, he saved 12 possible goals for the Indian team.
