By Shahrukh Sohail, Chief Editor, Islamabad
He’s only 24, but Yousuf Ijaz Butt has already become Pakistan’s first choice in the International arena and now he returns to the Denmark 1st Division after signing for Brønshøj BK on a 6-month deal.
“It felt natural when Brønshøj contacted me. I first talked to the director and then the head coach. I got good vibes from both and was convinced it was the right move to make,” said the goalkeeper in an exclusive interview with FootballPakistan.com.
Highlighting the higher standards between the 1st Division and the lower leagues in Denmark, Butt claimed that not only is the style of play more advanced, but the facilities are top-notch as well.
“Of course, there is a difference. It’s natural, the level is higher but the most satisfying difference is the setup,” he added.
Yousuf was at BGA in the Danish 2nd Division up until last year, but when the chance to return to the 1st Division came, he grabbed it quickly and penned a 6-month contract at the Tingbjerg Ground.
“I was recommended by a former GK coach to the clubs director who called and asked if i was interested. I later talked to the coach and we then agreed sign a 6-month contract. Insha’Allah after 6 month, this can open doors; either for a renewal or maybe something else, you never know.”
Commentating on the competition he now has at Brønshøj, Yousuf revealed that the club has four goalkeepers on the payroll but he will be the number 2 and will fight for his chance starting next week with a Cup game.
“We are actually 4 Goalkeepers. I came to the club after preseason and 3 days before the season started. So the plan is that i will start in the number 2 spot and wait for my chance. I have been on the bench the last two games and will Insha’Allah start in our cup game next week.”
“Of course it’s difficult to play! all of us keepers train every day. So competition is hard l but i feel with the experience i have collected of being 1 choice since i was 18, I can prove my worth. Not forgetting to mention how much starting for Pakistan has given me an edge.”
The former HIK shot-stopper also revealed that with the experience of playing in the 1st Division, he can contribute to the Pak Shaheens even more in the future.
“Insha’Allah i will develop even more under this coach and club which will Insha’Allah also benefit the national team with an even more developed GK. It’s always an honor to play for Pakistan. I am always looking extremely forward to being called up by PFF. Insha’Allah, i hope the call ups from NT will continue so i can contribute with my keeping for the national team,” he claimed.
Brønshøj did well last term and ended in a respectable fourth place, but with 7 influential players leaving the team, the priority is to secure their top flight status with a decent finish and challenge for the higher finish next season according to Yousuf.
“Last year we ended at 4 place. We however have lost 7 players from the starting 11, so the new team has to be played together. Therefore this year the aim is not a top palace, we have to be realistic. We will use this year to play the team together and Insha’Allah go for the top next year.”
“I am still young but i have big ambitions. My biggest aim is actually to become one of the best Asian goalkeepers. Insha’Allah, this move is the start of taking me there,” Yousuf revealed while talking to FootballPakistan.com.
Yousuf’s goalkeeping skills and abilities for Pakistan and his clubs in Denmark can be watched here: http://vimeo.com/97304753