Robin to miss rest of SAFF Cup, Constantine terms it a big blow for India

SAFF Cup - Missing Robin Singh is a loss for us says Stephen ConstantineTRIVANDRUM: Indian National Team suffered a “big blow” when Striker Robin Singh was released from the camp early Tuesday (December 29) morning.

National Coach Stephen Constantine stated it’s “disappointing to lose him.”

“Yesterday’s (December 28) MRI revealed that his knee problem is a bit more serious that we had expected. The doctors have advised us that he will need 10 days rest before undergoing another MRI,” Constantine said.

“It’s a blow and a loss for us,” Constantine added. “He had started to score for the National Team on a regular basis and is such a hard working guy.”

Robin scored twice in India's 2-0 win over Sri Lanka to start India's campaign in style.

India face Maldives in the first semi-final on Thursday while Afghanistan will take on Sri Lanka in the other last-four clash.

The guidelines of the SAFF Suzuki Cup, however, state that India won’t be allowed to register any replacement for Robin. The strength of the squad, hence, at present is 19 which include three Goalkeepers.