Great opportunity for youngsters, says Sunil Chhetri in special message to Next Generation Cup participants

London, July 26

Indian national team captain Sunil Chhetri extended his best wishes to the Bengaluru FC reserve team ahead of the Next Generation Cup, 2022, in the United Kingdom. Bengaluru FC face former Premier League champions Leicester City FC's academy team while Kerala Blasters FC play Tottenham Hotspur in the opening round on Wednesday.

The inspirational Sunil Chhetri shared a special video message wishing the coach, Naushad Moosa and his wards all the best, advising the players to enjoy the experience.

"Moosa (bhai), lads, all the very best. I think it is a great opportunity for all of you. I am pretty sure you guys are going to do well. I know you are going to face some of the best youth teams in England. You have all our support. Just go out there and enjoy. All the best," said Chhetri, the third-highest active international goalscorer in the world.

The Next Generation Cup is part of Football Sports Development (FSDL) and Premier League's long-term partnership. Both the English and Indian leagues have been working together to holistically develop football in India.

Kerala Blasters FC's midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad also shared a message for the young yellow brigade. "Wishing all the very best to the Kerala Blasters youth team for the Premier League Next Gen Cup. Do well and enjoy your time in the UK. Come on boys," Sahal expressed.

Meanwhile, newly-appointed Bengaluru FC head coach Simon Grayson also had words of motivation for the emerging players.

"Wishing the Under 23s all the best in the Premier League Next Generation Cup with the game they are involved in. I know you are playing Leicester City, one of my former clubs, which will be a fantastic experience for you. Make sure you go and enjoy yourself, and work hard representing the (Bengaluru FC) badge. Good luck to all of you," the Englishman.

Both Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters qualified for the international tournament by virtue of finishing top two in the inaugural Reliance Foundation Development League.

The Next Generation Cup, 2022 features eight teams - five Premier League academy teams along with two Indian clubs and one South African team.

Bengaluru FC are placed in 'Next Gen Midlands' Group A alongside Leicester City FC, Nottingham Forest and Stellenbosch FC. Kerala Blasters FC are in 'Next Gen London' Group B, featuring Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United FC and Crystal Palace FC.

Kerala Blasters FC's match against Tottenham Hotspur kicks off at 3:30 PM IST while Bengaluru FC against Leicester City FC will kick off at 9:30 PM IST.

Both matches will be streamed LIVE on Indian Super League's Facebook page and YouTube channel.

--IANS