After India’s Asian Cup exit, defender Anas Edathodika retires from international football

Anas Edathodika, the defender of Indian national football team, announced his retirement from international football on Tuesday. His announcement came after India’s disheartening exit from the AFC Asian Cup post 0-1 loss to Bahrain. Anas informed about his retirement decision on social media, calling it a very hard decision to take. The defender shared an emotional message on Instagram, thanking former coach Stephen Constantine for his support.

 

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It comes with a very heavy heart today to announce my retirement from Indian national football team. It’s been a very hard decision to take and accept. I love to play more years at my best, but I think it’s the time to step down and give opportunities to youngsters who can perform better. It took 11 years to break into the national team and playing for the national team is the top achievement in my career; although the journey was short. Each and every time I tried to give more than 100 percent for the team. I was so disappointed to pick up an injury in the opening minutes and it will hurt me forever. I just want to say a huge thanks to the coach @stephenconstantine for believing in me and giving me the opportunity and I wish you good luck for the future. Also thanks to all the coaching staffs, teammates, the fans and who all have supported me throughout my journey for the national team. I have been blessed to play for my country, with some of the best players. My heart will forever embrace the feeling of walking through the tunnel and out onto the field donning the national jersey with my brothers. @sandesh21jhingan, we had a good partnership in guarding the central defence, it was an emotion playing with you, Brother. @jejefanai, Trust me, you’re the best room partner I ever had and I’ll miss all these! I wish you all good luck and keep making our nation proud. These memories will stay with me forever, ♥️. I’m not giving up, my loves. I think this is right time to take the right decision. Much love, Anas Edathodika.

A post shared by Anas Edathodika (@anasedathodika15) on Jan 15, 2019 at 5:17am PST

Anas retirement comes following Stephen Constantine’s decision to step down as Indian coach. After Asian Cup exit, the Indian coach decided to step down from the post. Anas played for Kerala Blasters in ISL. He made international debut in 2017 against Cambodia at the age of 30. He played a total of 19 international matches for India. He was appreciated for his strong defence with Sandesh Jhingan at centre back position.