Putting aside his differences with Baichung Bhutia, national football coach Syed Nayeemuddin showered praise on the Indian captain for the stellar role he played in the team's triumph in the SAFF Championship in Karachi last week.

"Bhaichung has been a star performer for the side and was an inspiration for the whole squad," Nayeem, whose third stint with the national side began with the SAFF Cup success, said on return to India.

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"He was playing after a long injury-lay-off, which made him a bit over-anxious at times, but he worked hard as anybody to ensure that we returned home with the trophy.

Bhutia, however, avoided a direct reply, when asked about his relations with the coach.

"The victory was achieved with the hard work of the whole team, with the guidance of the management and the coaching staff. It was a total team effort," the ace goal poacher said.