New Delhi, Sep 13 - India captain Bhaichung Bhutia and Mohun Bagan Football Club have been given more time by chief arbitrator Amrendra Sharan to amicably solve their differences.

After a meeting here with both parties Sunday, Sharan told IANS that he is hopeful of a harmonious settlement.

'I have set September 16 as the next date of hearing and then I will take a call. Things look tough for an amicable settlement, but I am still hopeful that we would find a solution,' Sharan said.

Mohun Bagan were represented by club secretary Anjan Mitra and other officials while Bhutia was represented by his lawyers.

Mitra said he would discuss the issue with club officials and will decide on the future course of action.

The Kolkata club has suspended Bhutia for six months for he missed an exhibition match and some of the team's practice sessions last season.