Khalid Jamil reveals reason for leaving Deshorn Brown on bench

The tactician reacted after a tight clash with the Nizams and seemed happy with the point. 

NorthEast United clashed with Hyderabad FC in their most recent Indian Super League 2020/21 fixture on Sunday. The game saw the Guwahati-based outfit share points with their opponents in a goalless stalemate. During the post-match interaction, Khalid Jamil further talked about the match and analyzed key talking points.

Analysis of game

The interim manager was asked about whether the goal was to avoid defeat or go for three points. He responded, “No, we are always thinking about getting the positive result, which is three points.

“We tried, we got many chances. Talking about the team, it was a good performance against a good team. We are happy to get one point, but we would have been happier to get three points,” he further added.

Deshorn Brown’s absence

Since making his move from Bengaluru FC, Deshorn Brown has looked decent for the Highlanders, scoring three goals in four appearances. Talking about the decision to keep Brown on the bench, Khalid Jamil said, “Brown was having a few injuries, including three stitches in the last match and we tried to bring him in the second-half. We also have (Idrissa) Sylla who is also a good player, a good striker.”

Dealing with suspended players

The tactician was asked if selection proved to be difficult because a couple of important players were unavailable due to suspension. He answered, “It was not difficult because two matches ago, (Provat) Lakra started and had the confidence that he would fulfill Ashtosh's (Mehta) place.”

“Talking about (Lalrempuia) Fanai, he also did a good job playing with Lalengmawia. The supply was good (from midfield) and his positioning was good, so I’m happy.” the 43-year-old further opined.

Plans for next match

With bottom side Odisha FC up next, Jamil is not going to let complacency creep in. He said, “We are not thinking like this (three points assured against OFC). Odisha is also a good team and we should not take any team lightly.”

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