India skipper Bhaichung Bhutia feels the FPAI can do little to help Steven Dias and N P Pradeep in their on-going transfer saga.

"Both had a two-year deal with Mahindra United and still they signed for East Bengal. In that case we can't do anything," Bhutia, who is also the chairman of FPAI (Football Players' Association of India).

"I had a chat with them and I think they would be happy to go back to Mahindra United," said the Sikkimese snipper, who successfully led India to lift the AFC Challenge Cup title last month.

Mahindra United and East Bengal are in a tussle for the two players and the Mumbai giants have made it clear they are in no mood to release the duo.

"Still, I told them to write to the FPAI but they are yet to respond," Bhutia told PTI.

Asked whether FPAI would seek recognition from the All India Football Federation (AIFF), Indian football's glamour boy replied, "We are not going to ask for recognition. We want to work together for football's development in the country."