In what is being termed as a significant step by All India Football Federation to ensure players’ well-being and holistic development, the Indian men’s football team welcomed a sports psychologist for the first time as part of "a renewed focus on the mental health" of the players as announced by the national federation on Monday.

Shayamal Vallabhjee, an experienced professional who has previously worked on the ATP Tour, with IPL franchises and professional golfers across the world, joined the national camp of the players who are preparing for the Intercontinental Cup here next month.