Sunday Times E-Paper

Ranjith Rodrigo, former president and current senior vice president

"In football we are at the bottom in the world, and we are in a disgraceful position in Asia. Too little have done to develop the game".

"We have to implement grassroots level programmes for children with a special focus on youth football development. We have already appointed Allegri (Italian football professional Massimiliano Allegri) as the Technical Director."

"We are going to restart women's football, FA Cup, Super League, Champions League and also the Under19 tournament, which I implemented during my previous tenure."

"Over the years, we have focused on the national team but not on age group football--the feeder for the national side."

"We should start from schoolchildren. When they come to the national team they should be well equipped technically but here the national coach has to teach how to kick the ball."

"At least a player should take part about 30 matches at premier level to develop as an international standard player. How can we develop international players without conducting tournaments?"

SPORTS

en-lk

2021-08-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-08-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://sundaytimes.pressreader.com/article/282114934616271

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