"Maybe my achievements don't get enough respect because they are outside of Europe"

In a globe-spanning coaching career, Stephen Constantine has seen everything. From dealing with dysfunctional federations to coaching during a civil war, the former India and Pakistan head coach looks back on his rollercoaster journey

- Imran Azam

You have managed India twice in the past, and recently came close to being appointed by the country again. How did it feel to miss out on the job to Khalid Jamil?

I respect and understand why they selected Khalid because he has done some good things. However, I do think they made a mistake by not bringing me back.

My track record speaks for itself. The highlight of my first spell [2002-2005] was winning the LG Cup [with the Under-23s]. We were not expected to beat Vietnam on their home patch. It was a major boost for Indian football, and over 10,000 fans greeted us when we got back to Kolkata. It was my first international trophy, so very special. When I returned [2015-2019], India were ranked 173rd by FIFA. In the space of just over two years I played my part in taking them inside the top 100. I took them to the Asian Cup. We beat Thailand 4-1 in our first game [India's first win in the competition for 55 years]. Had it not been for a 91st-minute penalty against Bahrain, we would've been the first Indian team to reach the knockout phase.

So why did you leave after the tournament?

When I was appointed, I told the president I would take India to the Asian Cup. I did that, so it was a case of mission accomplished. Had they offered me a contract extension, I would have stayed.

Jamil is the first Indian to lead the national team in 13 years. Doesn't his appointment reassure homegrown coaches that the top job in men's football isn't necessarily the preserve of foreigners?

Khalid had no previous experience in international football. The Indian team is in freefall. I believe that the majority of players and the wider Indian football industry would've been happy for me to come back. It goes without saying not everyone would have been pleased, and that's because I make it about the team and not about the egos of individual players.