Vincenzo Alberto Annese: NEUFC need a good player in midfield

The NorthEast United boss also pointed out a positive from the game.

NorthEast United equalled their worst-ever record of losing 13 games in the 2017-18 season at the Mumbai Football Arena on Friday. Vincenzo Alberto Annese's side had a tough outing in the city of dreams as they were torn to shreds by Mumbai City in the first half.

The Islanders came out all guns blazing in the first half while NorthEast United somehow managed to stop them in the second, including a penalty save by Mirshad Michu. Wilmar Jordan was sent off during the game, which means he will miss the team’s trip to Kochi. 

After the game, head coach Vincenzo Alberto Annese addressed the media.

Thoughts on the game

The Italian began by sharing his thoughts on the game. He said that there was no time for recovery after the last game, but that’s not an excuse. He also spoke about the absence of a mature midfielder in the middle.

“We only got three days to rest after the Goa game. Time was not enough, but it’s not an excuse. We did not have anyone to build up in the middle, someone who could motivate everyone. Our plan did not work today. I saw the improvements in the second half and I hope we build upon this,” he stated.

Half time team talk

When asked what was his team talk at the break after conceding four goals in the first half, the mentor said that his players were ready to give their best and they did give a better second half performance.

“We know the quality Mumbai have. The guys were ready to fight. I spoke about the tactical plans and they were ready to face the second half. And we did well. We closed the space for them, got 2-3 counter-attacks but it didn’t work. We take the positives from this game - our defensive work. The team needs a good player in the middle,” he asserted.

Objective for the remainder of the season

There’s not much to play for the Highlanders, going into the final few games of the ISL 2022-23 season. When quizzed about what is the team’s objective going into the remainder of the matches, Vincenzo Alberto Annese replied, “We need to make good steps forward for the next season. We try to improve game by game and I think we have done well. Not just results, but even style of attack. We could’ve scored one today. I believe in the guys if they have a good environment around them."