Coronavirus: 'Worse than post-Article 370 clampdown', Real Kashmir FC coach pines for a way home

Real Kashmir FC coach David Robertson, along with other foreign footballers and members of the team management, are stuck in Srinagar amid the lockdown issued to contain Covid-19 pandemic.

And as per a report in The Telegraph, it is one of the most difficult phases in the Scot’s life because his old parents have been left to fend for themselves in these troubling times. “It’s the most difficult phase of my life. I need to go back to Scotland as early as possible,” Robertson told the daily.

“My parents (Leslie and Muriel) are there all alone, fending for themselves and I am really worried for them. My mother is undergoing chemotherapy. The days are long and I just can’t sleep at night,” he added.

https://twitter.com/realkashmirfc/status/1193839010772176897

Robertson, known for turning Real Kashmir FC from a new club fighting it out in the second division to I-League title contenders within three seasons, saw the clampdown in Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370. But according to him, the current lockdown is worse.

“Then we came back to Srinagar. The scenario was not good but at least we were able to go out and play football. The game kept us going. But now we all are inside the hotel,” he said.

When the league, and the entire world of sports, came to a sudden halt, Real Kashmir were still fighting for the runners-up slot in the I-League.

And as per reports, the league might be cancelled. “Given the situation, I do not think the organisers (All India Football Federation) would be able to complete the League. The Indian footballers have left for home. But I am worried about my foreign players,” Robertson said.