The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has decided to engage former players for the development of the game in the country.

In a letter sent by president Kalyan Chaubey on Wednesday, the federation has asked former players to send their suggestions and also if they would be interested to work at the grassroots level.

“I myself being a former player understand the challenges some of the former players face with Indian football and after considerable thought and consultation.

“I have decided to engage the maximum number of former players who are interested to be a part of the football structure,” Chaubey wrote in the letter.

“I would be glad if you can offer your services as scouts in your respective location and state where you belong, and also if you have the ambition to become a coach, then kindly update with me your request so that I can make a plan to make the necessary arrangements for your training and engagement for the game,” he added.

“Further, I would like to also request your time by giving me your valuable suggestions which you think are appropriate for the development of the game, I would be very happy to receive your suggestions and recommendations whatever you think based on experiences for the growth of football in India.” Anirban Dutta, secretary of the Indian Football Association which runs the game in Bengal, welcomed the move. “It’s a good thing. We have already started the process of asking former eminent footballers about their views,” Dutta said.

“It is a good initiative. Former internationals must grab this opportunity and contribute.

“This will also be a stepping stone for some of them who are keen to get involved in administration too,” Karnataka State Football Association secretary M Satyanaryan said. India are currently at 101in the Fifa rankings.