We are confident of winning a medal at the Rio Olympics: Manpreet Singh

Manpreet Singh’s form will play a critical role in India making a deep run in Rio

After a lacklustre start to the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, Indian team finished the tournament strong with a bronze medal. It was coach Paul Van Ass’s first stint with the team and he was happy with the squad’s determination in turning things around.

One of India’s mainstays in the midfield, Manpreet Singh praised the new coach and felt that his belief in hard work will enhance India’s chances of winning a medal at next year’s Olympics.

"He is good coach. The practice sessions have been great so far. He believes in hard work and we are putting in the effort. The team is learning a lot every day," Manpreet said.

Each tournament is important leading upto the Olympics

A good showing in the test series against Japan will be crucial for India’s preparations for bigger tournaments later in the year.

"The performance at Azlan Shah was very good and we have a lot of time to get the best out of him. The Test series against Japan will be a great learning curve for the team. Our coach thought that every team in the tournament [Azlan Shah] played really well and to come out and win the bronze after the kind of start we had to the tournament surprised him, “ Manpreet added.

Talking about India’s chances of winning a medal at Rio, Manpreet said the team will take it one tournament at a time.

"We still have a lot of time before the Olympics. First we have the Japan series and then the World league round, which is followed by the tours in Europe. So hopefully by the time it starts, we will be up and ready, looking to get the medal for the country."

Need for a Sports Psychologist and backup goalkeeper

Manpreet also emphasised the need for a sports psychologist in the setup. "The requirement of a sports psychologist in the team is important and it can help us stay fresh and improve our performance."

P R Sreejesh was vocal about the need for a backup goalkeeper recently. Manpreet felt that it is important to have an extra goalkeeper to chip in during major tournaments backing Harjot Singh for the job.

"It is right that we do not have great back up goal-keepers. We only have two at the moment, and I think Harjot is also pretty good. We think he will do well in the future," Manpreet concluded.