TSP Player Profile: Shubham Yadav

Shubham Yadav is an emerging talent in the circuits of football, currently making his mark with the Thane Soccer Prodigies (TSP) in his first year with the team. At 18 years old, Shubham plays as a center midfielder, a position that allows him to utilize his skills and make a significant impact on the field. Known for his silent confidence, Shubham's presence is felt as he opens up opportunities and simplifies the game for his teammates. His journey in football began on the streets, inspired by the Indian Super League, and he remains connected to the street football community.

Shubham completed his schooling at Dr. Antonio Da Silva High School and is currently pursuing a Bachelor in Management Studies at Guru Nanak Khalsa College. He plans to further his education with a postgraduate degree in sports management. Despite being an amateur footballer, Shubham's dedication and passion for the game are evident. His football career officially started last year when he played in the MFA second division for The Sports Gurukul (TSG), but his love for the game was nurtured through street football with his friend Steve Patil.

Shubham's football role models include Lionel Messi for his extraordinary talent, Thiago Alcantara for a playing style that resonates with Shubham's own, and Sunil Chhetri, whom he admires for his phenomenal achievements as an Indian footballer. Besides football, Shubham enjoys watching other sports like kabaddi and tennis. His favorite football memory so far is assisting a teammate in scoring a last-minute match-winning goal in the MFA second division last year.

Preparation is key for Shubham, both physically and mentally. He stays hydrated, consumes carbohydrates for energy, and stretches thoroughly. Mentally, he plans his game strategy and meditates for 15 minutes before a match to boost his confidence. Shubham values the optimistic and supportive environment of the Thane Soccer Prodigies, where teammates encourage each other to excel. We cannot thank coach Ashu for it enough. So often we see other teams using abusive language publicly and shouting at their own players. In the name of sportsmanship, people often forget when you play you are also a role model. Even if its to one kid who might be in awe watching you in the kit. Its a responsibility to behave well. Shubham contributes by helping fellow players recognize their strengths.

As a center midfielder, Shubham prides himself on his first touch, ball penetration, vision, and ability to play simply while encouraging his teammates. His personal goal for the season is to improve, and help in team's goal to win the title. Despite the seriousness of the sport, Shubham enjoys the “Bro-mance” and humor shared with teammates post-training.

Injuries have been a challenge for Shubham, with multiple ankle sprains sidelining him for nearly ten months. Shubham is optimistic about the growth of football in India, noting the improvement in leagues like the MFA and southern leagues. He believes the focus should be on nurturing young talent rather than solely on FIFA rankings and World Cup qualifications.

Shubham will only become stronger, and better from here. TSP will always take pride of being part of Shubham’s success story and hoping he plays for many more seasons with us and we grow together.