NorthEast United missed Federico Gallego, admits Khalid Jamil

The Highlanders' interim head coach also spoke about their next game against SC East Bengal.

On Thursday, NorthEast United went level on points with third-placed Hyderabad FC and FC Goa at fourth, after their 3-3 draw against Chennaiyin FC. It turned out to be a thriller at Bambolim, as the Highlanders managed to salvage a point in the third minute of stoppage time with a spot-kick from Luis Machado. The team are currently in fifth place and after the final whistle, their interim head coach Khalid Jamil spoke to the media after the match.

Lack of concentration

The Highlanders conceded two goals inside two minutes at the start of the second half. On being asked if it a was lack of concentration that led to the two goals, Khalid Jamil said, “Yes, you can say a lack of concentration, but we came back. That is the good point.”

Fighting Spirit

The draw meant NorthEast United are now unbeaten in their last eight matches. On being asked about the fighting spirit of his team, the 33-year-old replied, “Yes, I don’t have any doubts. All the boys worked very hard and that is a good plus point.”

Chennaiyin played better

NorthEast only managed to salvage a point in the game after winning a penalty in stoppage time. When asked if his team’s failure to score an equalizer from open play meant that Chennaiyin were tactically better, Khalid Jamil said, “Yes, Chennaiyin played better, but even we tried.

"It was our plan to play defensive and then we go for the counter. Then second half we said just we try for five minutes and then we put (Idrissa) Sylla. But, sometimes it happens like this," he further added.

Missing Gallego

NorthEast United midfielder Federico Gallego missed the game because of an injury. On being asked if it was a blow to his team, the former Mohun Bagan and Aizawl FC manager stated, “Definitely, we miss Gallego. If he comes in the next match it will be best for us.”

Not thinking about other teams

Both FC Goa and Hyderabad FC managed to win their most recent games. On being asked if that had any impact on his team, the Highlanders’ manager said, “We are never thinking about that.

"We are thinking about the next game that is East Bengal, they are a good side. So, we have to give our best and everything will be fine. We are playing a good team next game. So, we must think about our game, it would be much better," Khalid Jamil signed off.

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