Andrey Chernyshov provides update on Joseph Adjei injury recovery ahead of Bengaluru FC clash in ISL

The Black Panthers are looking for their second win of the season against the Blues.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Mohammedan SC head coach Andrey Chernyshov galvanized his troops ahead of their upcoming game against Bengaluru FC. The Russian coach addressed the media ahead of their crucial matchweek 9 encounter which has huge ramifications for their season ambitions.

Andrey Chernyshov provided key updates on player fitness, goalkeeper selection, and his tactical approach to countering Bengaluru’s formidable lineup. Coming into the game, the club faces an uphill battle in their ambitions to secure a top-six spot come the end of the regular season.

How will Andrey Chernyshov deal with Joseph Adjei’s absence?

A huge headache for Andrey Chernyshov before the Bengaluru game will be the availability of key player and defender Joseph Adjei. Adjei’s fitness remains an uncertainty for Chernyshov, who revealed that the 29-year-old Ghanaian has only just resumed training with the group.

Despite making five appearances this season, Adjei has missed several days of practice and is set to undergo a crucial fitness test during the final training session. While elaborating on the player’s fitness, the Russian stated, “If Joseph does this test well, then he will be in the squad tomorrow. But if this physical test is not so good, then he needs more time for recovery and preparation.”

The Ghanaian defender’s potential return and inclusion would be a huge morale boost for a Mohammedan defense that has been leaky throughout the season.

ALSO READ: Mohammedan SC vs Bengaluru FC lineups, team news, prediction & preview

Who is Mohammedan SC’s Starting No.1?

While talking about major changes at the back, Andrey Chernyshov maintained an air of secrecy regarding his starting goalkeeper for the match. With four goalkeepers in the squad, the Russian has a huge decision on his hands. While Padam Chhetri had played the most games out of the available goalkeepers, Bhaskar Roy was selected for the East Bengal FC game.

A clean sheet performance later, Chernyshov is keeping his cards close to his chest regarding his starting shot-stopper. While talking about the dilemma, he stated, “Today after practice, all our coaches will sit together and discuss the first eleven for tomorrow.” The Russian jokingly referred to the selection as ‘top secret’, while tactfully not revealing any details.

Mohammedan SC will have to put on a spirited display

Talking about upcoming opponents Bengaluru FC and their dangerous attacking trio, Chernyshov underlined the importance of preparing to face the entire team rather than focusing on specific players. He stated, “They will play 11 players tomorrow, not just three. We cannot concentrate on one player. We need to speak about all the players, their tactics, and what they want to do.”

The Russian head coach stressed the collective strength of Bengaluru, highlighting the need for Mohammedan SC to execute their game plan effectively as a unit. His approach reflects a pragmatic mindset as he prepares Mohammedan SC to face a Bengaluru side that while looking weak in recent weeks is a formidable opponent.

Andrey Chernyshov and his men will need to focus on instilling a tactical discipline, coupled with careful player management in key moments against the Blues. If Mohammedan SC are to secure a positive result in this pivotal fixture, they will need to be tails up from the very first whistle. With both teams eyeing key points, fans can expect a fiercely contested battle on the pitch.

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