Yet, we can't solely blame the AIFF for that. The state associations and clubs have not done their bit in fulfilling their responsibilities,' he said.

The India captain was also unhappy with AFC's new rule, putting a cap on the recruitment of overseas players by a club at four and insisting on one of them being an Asian.

'Our clubs have a tendency to bank heavily on foreign strikers. But playing against foreign players has made the Indian players tough. I am happy with the existing rule of three foreigners but the new rule will be too much,' he said.

Asked if foreign coaches are of any benefit to Indian football, Bhaichung said: 'It is not about Indian or foreign coaches. Anyone with proper credentials and who can make useful contribution to Indian football should be welcome.'

Bhaichung also said Indian coaches are themselves to be blamed for not getting a proper coaching license and if they are reluctant to qualify then they will be out of their jobs by the next I-League.

'A pity, our coaches have a mental block. They feel that they have played lot of matches for India so they don't need a coaching license. Coaching is now not what it used to be 20 or 30 years ago. It has become modern and AFC is not stupid to introduce licensing system, and for that matter, Franz Beckenbauer was not a fool to get a license,' he said.

On India's chances in the 2011 Asian Cup, Bhaichung said: 'It will be a big challenge for us. I know it will be tough but don't expect us to play in the final. We will put up a competitive show and hopefully if we do well the profile of the game in the country will also improve.'

The Indian captain also hoped that the change of guard at AIFF will also give a fillip to the game.

'Our acting president Praful Patel is bringing the money for the game. Hopefully his presence will make a difference,' he said.