Q&A Session with RoundGlass Punjab FC Defender Lironthung Lotha

Interview with 22 year old Lironthung Lotha from Nagaland who is plying his trade as a defender for I-League side RoundGlass Punjab FC.

How did you get into football? When did you decide to become a professional footballer?

As a child, in the beginning, all I had was a football and little knowledge of the game. But after a year of playing, I decided to consider it as a career when I was selected to play under SAI (Sports Authority Of India) at Golaghat, Assam. Thereafter, my footballing mind broadened and I decided to set specific professional goals.

What’s your take on the professional football scene in India?

At the moment, in terms of professionalism, we have grown a lot in the past 20 years. But, we still have lesser teams in the top division and the second division compared to the top footballing nations. Additionally, we need a longer season, maybe like a 10-month long season. 

At 22, you are already playing for an I-League side in RoundGlass Punjab FC. What are your short and long term goals?

I give thanks to the Almighty for all the success to date because without him, nothing would be possible. As of now, my goal is to play more matches in the I-League and to continue working on my weaknesses. In the long term, I would like to see myself playing for the national team and even beyond (international) if it is God’s will.

Which player would you like to emulate in your game?

Cristiano Ronaldo.

What has been the most memorable game you’ve played, and the most memorable you’ve watched so far?

I’ll never forget the day I played an Under-18 I-League match for Mohan Bagan against East Bengal, we were doubtful and under pressure, both teams played hard and even after 90 minutes of play, there was no goal from either team. But, with God’s blessing, I got a good chance to shoot at the 93rd minute and this ended up being the winning goal. I was awarded the best player of the match. To this day, I always praise and thank God for it.
The 2nd leg UCL round of 16 matchup between Juventus and Athletico Madrid in which Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat- trick to grant Juventus entry into the quarter final berth against Ajax. 

What’s the best thing about being a professional footballer?

Responsibility and dedication. We are paid to follow our dreams which is awesome but not always easy. While we sacrifice a lot, emotionally, mentally, and physically, at the end of the day, we are fortunate enough to get media attention and come up on the headlines which isn’t necessarily the case for others working in a different line of work. As I said, the best thing is that we get paid to do what we like.

What has been the toughest challenge in your professional life?

My career was never easy, there have been many ups and downs. But, I never lost hope and faith. I always wanted to see myself in the I-League, ISL and to play for the Indian team. After all these years of struggle, I am now in the I-League and I’m still working toward my two other goals. 

What would you advise other aspiring footballers on the come up?

I’m still struggling for my goals to be achieved. My message to my brothers who are on the come up is to never compare yourself with others, never lose hope and faith in God. Lastly, nothing comes without sacrifice.

We were overjoyed seeing snaps of yours in the recent past where you were coaching little kids and providing supplies during the pandemic. Is community outreach something you’re interested and actively involved in?

Thank you very much. I have been training my village kids during the lockdown to keep them healthy, to give them a taste of football, and also to keep them away from bad habits. The time spent with them has been truly fruitful. I provided football kits through the aid of some well-wishers, and rations to supplement their diet. I am doing my best to help them with the little I’ve learnt and have. The smile on the kids’ faces are pure, and it motivates me to continue helping them even more. 

Thank you for taking the time to converse with us, Liron. We wish you the best in your professional journey and salute you for giving back to your community back home.