India football captain Baichung Bhutia, who was handed a six-month suspension by Mohun Bagan on Monday for breach of rules and regulations, has appointed Usha Nath Banerjee as his legal counsel to challenge the Kolkata club's decision.
"Baichung has personally requested me to represent him. So I'm here for my client. However, I will not disclose our next move, which you will come to know shortly," Banerjee told reporters in Kolkata.
"Bhutia has a contract with Mohun Bagan till 2010. But his contract does not become operative until he registers himself with IFA. He is a free footballer till he registers again with IFA for the upcoming 2009-10 season," he added.
However, Bagan general secretary Anjan Mitra rubbished the suggestion, saying the club's decision on the footballer is completely in accordance with the rules.
"Who says the season is over? It will get over on June 25 after which also he will be a contracted Mohun Bagan player. He is not a free player.
"I don't want to spoil his career. His lawyer is creating confusion and giving wrong advice," Mitra said.
On the charge of irregularity in duties, Banerjee asked, "Why was he not punished when he missed practice sessions or when he participated in a dance reality show?
"The coach was always satisfied with him, and if he was unfit, then why was he included in the side to play the I-League matches? They should have punished him then.
"It cannot be a ground for suspension. Rule book does not say that. It means Mohun Bagan has gone above FIFA, AFC and AIFF in punishing Bhutia."
He alleged that Bagan wants to finish off Bhutia's career.
"They want to finish Bhutia and football. They know there are a lot of matches in the next six months. It's intentional. But, as his lawyer, let me be clear that Bhutia will not sit idle," Banerjee added.
Bhutia had sought release from Mohun Bagan after his commitment was questioned by the club in a showcause notice served on him on May 15. Dismissing his request, the club suspended him on grounds of irregularities and missing practice sessions.
