Clifford Miranda insists FC Goa aren't preparing separately to face Bright

The Gaurs' assistant coach addressed the media in the absence of the suspended Juan Ferrando.

FC Goa take on East Bengal at the Fatorda Stadium in another exciting match-up in the Indian Super League. Despite the suspensions of defender Ivan Gonzalez and head coach Ferrando, the Gaurs will fancy getting all three points against a side that frustrated them last time around. Assistant coach Clifford Miranda and new signing Adil Khan spoke to the media ahead of the fixture on Friday.

Approach to game

Clifford Miranda is unfazed about the opposition and the Gaurs’ playing style, despite injuries and suspensions. “This game is as important as any other. We play the same way, how we have played all 13 games so far. It is a very important game. One more step towards achieving our goal. We have a bit of concern due to certain omissions. But, otherwise we have a good team. If someone is unavailable, there is always someone who will step in.”

Important coming months

FC Goa are placed in Group E for the upcoming AFC Champions League, but the assistant coach was adamant that it was the last thing on their minds. “At this moment, we are only thinking about East Bengal. Right now, the focus of the players, coaching staff and the entire team. We will go step-by-step and cross the bridge when we are there.”

Adil Khan’s signing

Adil Khan’s arrival comes at the opportune time for the Gaurs, who were looking to strengthen their squad for the second half of the season. "At FC Goa, anyone who comes and improves our team is welcome.

"There is no doubt about Adil. Any player who plays in the national team has to have quality. He has come in to improve our team. We need to reach a level where we can help each other. He wouldn’t have been part of the national team for such a long time, if he didn’t have quality.”

The threat of Bright Enobakhare

Bright Enobakhare’s arrival has buoyed East Bengal and made them a legitimate threat in the league. “He scored a wonderful goal the last time around. He's a good player. There is no doubt about it.

"He has improved East Bengal since his arrival. There is no such plan to stop one player because if we concentrate on one player, there are nine other outfield players who can hurt us. There is no plan for any special player.”

FC Goa’s direction forward

Clifford Miranda was also happy with the way the team has grown during the course of the season. “The most important thing about this team is adaptation. The adaptation to the new coach. The adaptation from the coach’s side to the players.

"Step-by-step, we are moving towards the way the coach wants the team to play. I believe we are in the right direction,” the assistant coach concluded.

Adil Khan on his time at Hyderabad this season

Adil was signed on loan from Hyderabad after failing to secure a starting role under Manolo Marquez. “It was difficult for me in the beginning of the season because I was out due to injury for almost two weeks. So, I couldn’t match the fitness levels of the other players. It happens in football.

"When someone else, who takes your place is doing well, the coach will think about that person more than the one who is not playing. He did not know much about me. But, now luckily, I have got the chance to come here and prove myself."

National team prospects

His lack of opportunities would have affected his chance to play for India under Igor Stimac. “There was a little bit of concern. Of course, if you don’t play in the current season, it is difficult for coach also to trust in you and pick you for the squad. I think I should get my chance in the camp, so that I can prove myself again there and get my place in the national team.”