We will return the Trophy: Valanka

PANJIM: The CEO of Churchill Brothers Sports Club, Valanka Alemao has agreed to return the Federation Cup rolling trophy to the Goa Football Association, today, ahead of the of the 36th edition of the prestigious tournament which begins in Goa.
“The All India Football Federation (AIFF) sent us an e-mail on Friday evening, requesting us to return the Federation Cup Trophy immediately. We will return the Trophy to the GFA tomorrow (Sunday) and then it will be handed to the AIFF,” stated Valanka at a press conference addressed in the capital city, on Saturday evening.
The Red Machines cannot defend their title on home soil after failing to meet the club licensing criteria laid by the AIFF which has restricted them to take part in this season’s I-League which starts from January 17.
The Varca-based family run club had appealed to the Delhi High Court which has asked the AIFF to review the Club’s appeal afresh.
 “Being the defending champions of the Federation Cup, It was very shocking to know that we were not included in the tournament when the fixtures were released. The AIFF is trying to mislead the press by saying that Churchill Bros are not ready to hand over the rolling trophy,” added Valanka.
The GFA in a letter to the parent body, on October 2 had requested to include Churchill Bros in the Federation Cup as well as the I-League. However, the AIFF also excluded Churchill Bros from the I-League under-19 competition which is underway.  
“All clubs from Goa have extended their support. Even the GFA wrote to the AIFF regarding the issue. It is very clear according to FIFA that a defending champion gets to defend their title. I don’t know what conspiracy is behind all this. I just don’t understand,” stated Valanka.
Valanka further informed that the AIFF failed to reply to any of their e-mails but is still confident that the parent body will review their case and allow them to play in the I-League.
“The AIFF assessed our Club Licensing before September but the I-League only begins in January. So I am very confident and optimistic to see our team play in the I-League,” replied Valanka when asked if they would agree to play in the Second Division I-League.
It was only in the 2011-12 that Churchill Bros were crowned the I-League champions for the second time and find themselves in such a situation. The team is currently rebuilding under Nigerian coach Joseph Afusi.