Antonio Habas: We have to put a solid performance to win against Mumbai

The Spaniard admitted that his side will have to put in extra effort to overcome the Islanders in their next match.

ATK will look to start the New Year on a positive note, as they travel to Mumbai to face the Islanders in an exciting Indian Super League clash. Head coach Antonio Lopez Habas and midfielder Jayesh Rane spoke ahead of the upcoming game and also reflected on the season so far. The Spaniard was first questioned about fielding Jayesh Rane more centrally, as the midfielder was previously known for his contributions from the flanks. He replied, "Jayesh has good technical and tactical ability, but not that much pace to play on the flanks." [KH_ADWORDS type="3" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS] ATK have been quite proactive in the transfer market. With the opening of the January transfer window, the Kolkata-outfit have already signed Spanish centre back Victor Mongil as a replacement for the injured John Johnson. Shedding more light on the transfer, Antonio Habas said, "Yes, we needed one player in defensive line. Johnson was injured, so we had the possibility to bring in another player and with Agus (Garcia) suspended we needed someone. I know Victor from the Atleti (Atletico Madrid) academy, so I feel he can support the team." Rane was quizzed about the balance of the ATK side. The midfielder said, "Yes, I think it is the most balanced team, as we are doing well. The thing that has changed in comparison to previous years is the coach's attitude and mentality towards the team. He is the director." The ATK midfielder gave credit to Aizawl FC for his overall growth and development. Remembering his Aizawl days Rane added, "My Aizawl days were very important. They weren't a big team, but it gave me a limelight. It was a big year for me and it helped me build my career." Mumbai City have been in great form lately and Antonio Habas is wary of the quality they possess, especially in attack and midfield. "I think Mumbai are a very dangerous opponent. They have players to create problems in our defence. They have good attackers and good midfielders. But, we have to use our chances with the idea to bring home three points," Habas added. Considering the brilliance in attack for both the sides, the coach was questioned whether individual brilliance will play a role in deciding the fate of the fixture. [KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News | Article Continues Below"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS] "The match will be decided based on the performance of the team's individual characteristics. We have to put a solid performance to win against them," Antonio Habas opined. Lastly, when quizzed about Paulo Machado's absence from the Mumbai City midfield and the consequences of it, Habas concluded, " I think it is never a good thing for football when a player gets injured. I know Paulo Machado for a long time and I hope he recovers fast and returns to action as soon as possible." "But, we don't have Agus in defence as well. So, things will be in the balance I feel. I wish him a speedy recovery and same for others like Carl McHugh, Johnson and others. These players make football more interesting."