Chelsea in talks with AIFF on skill development

Panaji, Oct 21 (IANS) Chelsea Chief Executive Officer Peter Kenyon said Tuesday that the English club is in talks with the All Indian Football Federation (AIFF) to explore cooperation in skill development areas for the growth of the game in the country.

Kenyon met AIFF general secretary Alberto Colaco and national coach Bob Houghton here during his two-day tour that concluded Tuesday.

'We are exploring a series of skill areas and that will be part of our discussion,' Kenyon told reporters here after the meeting.

'Indian football is strong with a good structure, and with a good I-league. Chelsea has signed an agreement with AIFF,' he added.

AIFF officials were also happy with the development and general secretary Colaco said: 'We can learn a lot from Chelsea CEO, who is regarded as one of world soccer's leading executives with an unparalleled network of contacts across FIFA, UEFA.'

Houghton felt that Chelsea can be of great help to Indian football.

'They are a great example of big football while India is developing football world and we ought to derive the maximum benefit from them as it can set a great example for football in India,' he said.