Rustam Akramov, Football Coach Who Gave International Debut To Bhaichung Bhutia, Dies

Former Indian football team coach Rustam Akramov, who introduced the legendary Bhaichung Bhutia to the international game in 1995 and took the Blue Tigers to their highest-ever FIFA ranking, has died at his native place in Uzbekistan. He was 73. The legendary Uzbek coach died on February 15, according to the official website of the National Olympic Committee of Uzbekistan. "The National Olympic Committee of Uzbekistan, the Council of Sports Veterans of Uzbekistan express their condolences to the family and friends of Rustam Akramov in connection with his death," the Uzbekistan Olympic body said.

During his career, he made a huge contribution to the development of Uzbek and former Soviet football.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) condoled the death of Akramov who was in charge of the national team from 1995 to 1997.

"We mourn the passing away of former India National Team head coach Rustam Akramov. May his soul rest in peace," the AIFF's official Twitter handle said.

We mourn the passing away of former India National Team head coach Rustam Akramov. May his soul rest in peace #RIP pic.twitter.com/leIhDqWrNr

Akramov did not have any major trophy to show for during his short tenure with the Indian team but it was he who gave then Sikkimese teenager -- Bhaichung Bhutia -- his debut in a Nehru Cup match against Thailand in March 1995.

Akramov helped Bhutia to shape up as a striker instead of playing as an attacking midfielder at club level. The Indian team under Akramov was full of great players like IM Vijayan, Carlton Chapman and Bruno Coutinho, besides a young Bhutia.

No wonder the Akramov-coached Indian team rose to 94th in the February 1996 FIFA rankings -- its highest ever. The team came close to this achievement