Japanese born Arata Izumi, the first foreign national to represent the Indian national team, is eager to prove his worth on the field for his country.
The tough looking midfielder has an important role to play in Dutch coach Wim Koeverman’s strategy and was confident that he could carry out the job. “I am ready to fight and uphold India’s flag. India is a good team and is focused upon winning the title,” said Izumi.
Arata’s father is Indian and his mother Japanese. He was born in India, but became a Japanese citizen after his parents separated. Currently, he plays for Pune FC in the Indian Premier League and made his debut for India in a friendly match against Palestine in Kochi on February 6.
Arata was also registered as an Indian player in the Durand Cup last year and before that, has played for Japanese outfit Mitsubishi Migushima and East Bengal. He got his Indian passport a year ago and is married to an Indian.