World Cup star Dheeraj returns to hero's welcome
Source: The Sangai Express

Moirang, October 15 2017: Star goalkeeper of the U-17 Fifa World Cup Indian squad, Moirangthem Dheeraj returned home today and was given a rousing welcome from Imphal International Airport upto his birthplace Moirang Phiwangbam Leikai .

Dheeraj, son of Moirangthem Romit and Usha, was overwhelmed by his fans and supporters at the Airport.

Moirang Kendra Progressive Front, Thangjing Thumpers Bullet Riders, his fans from Moirang and other places accorded him a warm welcome.

The reception did not end there as the day saw endless fans and supporters along the stretch of Tiddim Roads stood in the sun waiting for the him.

Garlands flooded around the neck of the U-17 hero as he reached Phubala .

World Cup star Dheeraj returns to hero's welcome

At Moirang Lamkhai, filled with excitement and joy, people of all age groups came out to see India’s star of the tournament who set on feet from there surrounded by his fans and lovers upto Moirang Thangjing Laikol where he was given a warm reception .

Dheeraj Moirangthem, who stole the hearts of many for his outstanding performance in the World Cup, went upto Thoya Leikai to meet his fans and lovers .

Speaking exclusively to The Sangai Express, Dheeraj said, “The U-17 FIFA World Cup taught me a big lesson.

I am blessed to be a part of the Indian squad and it is one of the most important events which provided oppurtunities to face excellent football teams of the world.”
“Though, it is the first appearance for our team in the world cup event, our position in the international level is certainly ascertained,” he added .

Commenting on the status of sports in the State, Dheeraj said that little improvement could be seen but not upto the mark.

He said, “Our State requires a good and upto-date infrastructure with dedicated and qualified coaches.” He also stressed on the importance of physical and mental preparedness for players in order to be successful.

Taking the U-17 World as the first step, he promised to work harder and expressed his desire to bring laurels to the Nation as well as to the State .

Dheeraj, Dheeraj who catched eyes of foreign teams at the world cup, credited his ‘success’ to his maternal grandmother, parents and thanked Jugin who led him to the sports and Surendro who helped him develop his talent from his childhood .

Though India’s campaign ended pointless on Thursday, Dheeraj has been a subject of talk in this football craze State for his superb shot-stopping ability, positioning and awareness.