Player profile of the week: Indian Goalkeeper Karanjit singh

Karanjit Singh, who has hogged the limelight in recent past has become the first preference of National Coach Savio Medeira to guard the post. Known for his quick reflexes and agility, the young custodian from Punjab has stood up to the everyone’s expectations, especially with ‘Spiderman’ Subrata Pal staying out of action.

Hailing from rural village of Punjab, Hoshiarpur, Karanjit started playing when he was 15. This young prodigy was spotted by former National Coach Sukhwinder Singh, in one of the local tournaments.

And immediately he was called for JCT by Sukhwinder in 2004 and since then has never looked back. After a stint of six long years with JCT, Karanjit ventured out — moving to Goan giants Salgaocar SC where the die-hard Petr Cech fan helped Salgaocar land the I-League and Federation Cup.

His break with the National Side came on 23^rd July, 2011 against United Arab Emirates in the World Cup Qualifiers. Subrata Pal was red-carded and Karanjit grabbed his chance.

“Representing the Nation stays everyone’s dream. The opportunity came a bit unexpectedly and I had to perform,” Karanjit exults.

“A goalkeeper is all about concentration. You need to act fast and on impulse.”

Part of the SAFF Championship winning squad, Karanjit’s next big challenge comes in the AFC Challenge Cup scheduled to kick-off in Kathmandu form March 8. 2012. “I have just started may career. Bigger tests await me. Life is challenging. I’m loving it.”

Name: Karanjit Singh

DOB: 08/01/1986

Birth place: Hoshiarpur, Punjab, India

Nick name: Karan

Playing Position: Goalkeeper

Teams played for: JCT & Salgaocar SC(Present)