Chopra reveals international dream

17 November 2010 15:00
Michael Chopra has spoken of his desire to represent India at international level. The Cardiff striker flew out to Dubai following Saturday`s 4-2 win at Scunthorpe to hold talks with India coach Bob Houghton before watching the national side go down to a 9-1 friendly defeat against Kuwait in Abu Dhabi. Chopra is keen to play in the forthcoming Asian Cup which runs from January 7-29, with India in Group C along with Australia, Bahrain and Korea Republic. Despite that meaning he would miss at least two npower Championship matches and City`s FA Cup third-round tie, Chopra insists manager Dave Jones has given him the green light. "I've discussed the matter with the manager (Jones) and he's quite happy for me to do it," Chopra told the Western Mail. "Obviously Cardiff are going to have some important games at that time, but it's an opportunity I can't really turn down and one I don't want to miss." Newcastle-born Chopra has strong Asian roots within his family and qualifies under FIFA rules courtesy of his India-born grandparents. But there remains red tape around the venture as domestic regulations in India mean only players who possess an Indian passport are allowed to represent their country, something he does not have.

Source: PA