Thangboi Singto: Aridane will not be there against ATKMB

The assistant coach of the Nizams spoke ahead of his side's clash against the mighty ATK Mohun Bagan.

Hyderabad FC have had an excellent start to their Indian Super League (ISL) campaign this season after staying unbeaten in the first three games. After a long break, they take on ATK Mohun Bagan at the Fatorda Stadium. Assistant coach Thangboi Singto caught up with the media ahead of their match against the Mariners.

The Nizams enjoyed a break after their last game against Jamshedpur FC and the assistant coach feels it was very good for the team in terms of recovery. “There are a lot of injuries, not only in my team but as well as in most of the teams. For us, it was really to work, not only on the physical side, but to keep them mentally sharp as well. Yes, the team is ready for tomorrow,” Thangboi Singto quoted.

Both Hyderabad and ATK Mohun Bagan have been among the more defensively strong teams. Pointing out this fact, the coach said, “We have been doing well defensively, but we think we need to score more goals and that is our target. Against ATK Mohun Bagan it will not be easy. Apart from the good foreign players, they have top Indian players as well. We, as a team, would like to focus on our strengths. ATK Mohun Bagan will be one of the top teams, but we have to play our game and hopefully we come out with a result.”

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Going into the big game, Hyderabad FC will miss their inspirational coach Manolo Marquez on the sidelines after he received a red card in their last match. “He will not be far away from us... in the stands. Whatever we have been doing is under his guidance and supervision. Of course, we will miss him on the bench, his experience, his composure and his deep expertise as the game goes on. But, we will be giving our best,” added the assistant coach speaking about the Spaniard's absence in tomorrow’s game.

Injuries have been a constant in Hyderabad’s journey this season. They have missed Fran Sandaza since the beginning of the campaign, with Joel Chianese, Luis Sastre and Aridane Santana adding to the list during the course of the league. Giving updates about their injuries, Thangboi Singto said, “In terms of Joel, Lluis and Fran, it (the injury status) still remains the same. Aridane is not there in the next match.”

Nevertheless, their youngsters have proved themselves and never let the absence of the foreigners be felt on the pitch. “Some of the youngsters are doing well. There are still some talented youngsters who are waiting to make their mark. As a footballer, this is what you wait for – the moment. When you get one, you have to showcase whatever you are capable of and that is the main focus for us. Whoever plays tomorrow gives their best, that's all we ask from the players,” he stated praising the young players in the team.

ATK Mohun Bagan have looked like serious title contenders ever since they started the term. The threat they pose in every game is surreal and when asked how Hyderabad will be able to withstand the pressure, Singto remained positive. “(Roy) Krishna is a player who has done well last season and this season he is continuing it. Of course, we have to be aware of his strengths, but apart from Roy they have players like Manvir (Singh) and (David) Williams. No specific plans, but we have to be aware of the attacking threats from more angles. Even the wing-backs, they are quite attack-minded,” concluded the 46-year-old. 

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