It is well said that injuries are part and parcel in a sportsman’s career. We have seen that many players’ careers have been hampered by a plethora of injuries whereas some have made a resounding comeback despite the adversities.
NorthEast United’s Britto PM has had his share of injury woes as he had to undergo two knee surgeries. However, the 28-year old didn’t throw in the towel as he kept working hard on his game after recuperating from his injury.
Britto played 11 matches for the Highlanders in Hero Indian Super League 2020-21 season and played a key role in taking the club to the semi-final stages.
“I started my professional footballing career as early as the age of 16. I played for the U-18 I-League for Viva Kerala and Pune FC. But at Pune FC, I confronted a knee injury during the practice session, and I kept playing, which further aggravated the injury. I had to undergo two surgeries on the knee, which kept me away from the field for nearly three years.
“I’ve almost lost the golden period of my life, and when all hopes were gone, the Indian Navy came into my life. I joined the force and started playing for them, and there I unhurriedly regained form. I represented Indian Navy in National games, Durand Cup, and Santosh Trophy and won many trophies. From there, Churchill Brothers signed me. Then I joined Mohun Bagan AC, and currently, I’m on a two-year contract with NorthEast United FC. The Indian Navy gave me a second chance, and I’m always in debt to the force,” he said while talking to Iftwc.com.
Britto feels there were no big names in NorthEast United and thus the focus was not on individuals. Subsequently, the team came up with a collective effort.
“What clicked for NorthEast United FC was the absence of hyped superstars in the team. Apart from Federico Gallego, there were no players of much fame in the group. This exact thing applies to the Indian players too and there was no space for ego on and off the field. Everyone helped, motivated, and urged each other and we worked as a single unit,” he said.
The striker added that he wants to upgrade his performance and give his best. Britto added that the aim is to earn the national call-up.
“I want to upgrade my performance. I’ll play with all my might to assist and score goals and help my team win. My prime objective will be to showcase my talent to acquire a national call-up,” he said.
