IANS

Kolkata, Jun 17: Describing a section of Mohun Bagan officials as "publicity-hungry and egotist", soccer star Bhaichung Bhutia Tuesday demanded they be thrown out of the football administration.

The Indian captain did not take names, but it was obvious that he was referring to Bagan general secretary Anjan Mitra and his loyalists running the 120-year-old club.

Accusing Bhutia of skipping practice and not turning out in an exhibition tie, Bagan had slapped a six-month suspension on the ace footballer. Bhutia, in turn, declared he would play for Bagan and took legal help.

Bhutia said his fight was not against Mohun Bagan, but rather against a couple of officials "who are publicity-hungry and work like dictators".

"This is the reason why former Bagan players don't want to get involved in the club administration nowadays. These officials' dictatorial attitude is damaging the club's reputation. It's high time they invite former players to run the administration," Bhutia said in a media meet at the Calcutta Sports Journalists' Club here.

"I would rather sit for 12 months without pay than play for Bagan with these officials in charge," he said.

Ridiculing the Bagan officials for questioning his commitment, Bhutia said: "How can you question my commitment while at the same time try to prevent me from leaving the club."

But the player expressed faith in the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Indian Football Association (IFA), and expressed confidence that he would get justice. "It's a battle between good and evil, and eventually, good will prevail."

Bhutia is set to join the Indian team's conditioning camp in Dubai from June 25.