Bengaluru FC have become a powerhouse in Indian football over recent times. After bagging two Hero I-League and Federation Cup titles in their four-year history, the Blues have now ventured into the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) for the upcoming season that kicks off in November.One of Bengaluru’s longest-serving players has been the quick-footed and pacey winger, Kumam Udanta Singh. The 21-year-old was signed up by them in their second season, right after he had won the Under-19 I-League title with Tata Football Academy. Since then, he has been an integral part of the larger machinery, as he went on to own the flanks with his speed and trickery.In a recent interview with indiansuperleague.com, the Manipur-born player shared his thoughts regarding the next adventure he is set to embark on. While he will feature for the southern team this season, Udanta had his first outing in the ISL with Mumbai City FC to whom he expressed his gratitude.“First of all, I’d like to thank Mumbai City FC for the last (ISL) season. This time, I’m starting for Bengaluru FC and I’m very happy overall with the team,” he gushed.He also explained the influence the senior players have on him, pointing out one particular footballer to whom he looked up to.“I learn a lot on and off the field; the attitude and skills - especially from Sunil bhai (Chhetri),” he elaborated.Udanta also lauded the supporters of his team, as he praised the passionate Bengaluru fans.“Oh, it’s (the backing) going to be huge for me. The support that we get from the people of Bengaluru is the best,” he expressed with delight.Quizzed as to who he thought were the strongest ISL teams, Udanta replied, “ATK and Kerala Blasters FC have the strongest squads.”He also picked the best players, in his opinion, for each position: Anas Edathodika and Sandesh Jhingan as the strongest defenders, Sunil Chhetri as the most potent forward and Gurpreet Singh Sandhu as the best goalkeeper.Before wrapping up, we asked Udanta who would make it to his dream five-a-side squad. “Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Sunil Chhetri, Eugeneson Lyngdoh, Jeje Lalpekhlua and myself,” he replied cheekily as we closed the interview.
