Two retired national team players Climax Lawrence and Mahesh Gawli and two current stars Subrata Paul and Oinam Bembem Devi have been recommended by the All India Football Federation for the prestigious Arjuna Awards.
We have given the names of Climax, Mahesh Gawli, Subrata and Bembem Devi,” said All India Football Federation (AIFF) secretary Kushal Das.
The 36-year-old Lawrence played as a midfielder and also led the country during a decade-long career that started in 2002.
Lawrence played for Dempo in the national league and is currently representing Mumbai FC in the I-League.
Gawli, a stopper, once held the distinction of being the highest paid Indian footballer in the league. He began his international career in 1999 and played a key role till he called it quits in 2011.
His club career began at FC Kochin in the 1998-99 season and has since played for big clubs like Churchill Brothers, East Bengal, Mahindra United and Dempo.
Playing international football since 2007, 28-year-old Paul is currently leading the national team, his elevation to top post came after Stephen Constantine’s appointment as coach. He is also India’s number one goalkeeper and has had a stint at Danish club FC Vestsjand.
The 35-year-old Bembem Devi plays for the Indian women team and has been a regular with her state team, Manipur.
