AIFF to recommend I M Vijayan for Padma Shri Award

Former India captain Vijayan, 51, was the recipient of Arjuna Award in 2003. A three-time AIFF player of the year, Vijayan is one of the most skilful footballers the country has ever produced. The Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian honour after the Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan. Vijayan played 79 matches for India between 1992 and 2003, and scored 40 goals. The reticent Thrissur-born footballer formed a prolific strike partnership for India alongside Bhaichung Bhutia and helped the team score several vital goals in international tournaments.