Preview: Jamshedpur FC lock horns with depleted NorthEast United

Both sides are looking to return to winning ways on Sunday.

Jamshedpur FC will look to pick themselves up after consecutive losses, as they go up against NorthEast United on Sunday in the Indian Super League. The Men of Steel are still very much in the playoffs race, however, they will have to pick up the pace now.

It has been a topsy-turvy ride for the Highlanders, as they started very well under the stewardship of Spanish tactician Gerard Nus. However, things soon turned sour as NorthEast United started dropping points. Their last win came more than a month ago against SC East Bengal and since then it has been a very disappointing run of games for the club. It also resulted in the dismissal of Nus, as Khalid Jamil has returned to take charge of the outfit.

The Stakes

Jamshedpur FC

The Men of Steel were in the top four at the halfway mark of the season. However, the extended break hindered their progress and as a result, they have lost two consecutive matches. The defensive organization, primarily between the two foreign centre-backs has looked shaky and there are things which coach Owen Coyle needs to take care of ahead of their next match. The hopes of Jamshedpur making it to the playoffs this season are still alive, but for that they need a positive result against NorthEast United.

NorthEast United

Things have been worsening for NorthEast United, as the Highlanders are winless in their last seven matches in the league. The stretch of disappointing results has resulted in the dismissal of Gerard Nus as Khalid Jamil has taken his place for the remainder of the season.

Although it has been a season of missed opportunities for the Highlanders till now, Jamil will look to instill a new belief among the players as they are still in contention for the playoffs.

Team News

Jamshedpur FC

It looks like Jamshedpur FC are finally getting over their injury woes as David Grande made a substitute appearance in their last match, while Nicholas Fitzgerald is also getting better with every passing day. However, there are doubts over Peter Hartley due to a possible injury and Alex Lima will miss the game through suspension.

NorthEast United

Khalid Jamil will have a relatively fit NorthEast United squad ahead of their big clash against Jamshedpur FC. Former Bengaluru FC striker Deshorn Brown has joined the Highlanders to replace injured Kwesi Appiah. Jamil may also make a few changes to shake things up and incorporate his style of play.

Head-to-Head

Jamshedpur FC and NorthEast United have faced each other seven times in their history. The Men of Steel have the upper hand with two wins, while the Highlanders are yet to win a match. The rest of the matches have ended in draws.

The last time both these sides met was on December 18, where the Men of Steel reigned supreme with Aniket Jadhav scoring the solitary goal in the 1-0 win.

Probable Lineups

Jamshedpur FC: Rehenesh (GK), Gahlot, Eze, Hartley, Lallawmawma, Mobashir, Monroy, Vanmalsawma, Jadhav, Jackichand, Valskis.

NorthEast United: Gurmeet (GK), Mehta, Lambot, Fox, Gurjinder, Camara, Lalengmawia, Ninthoinganba, Machado, Gallego, Suhair.

Man To Watch

Nerijus Valskis (Jamshedpur FC)

The first name that comes to anyone's mind when they think of Jamshedpur this season. Despite scoring eight goals, the best is yet to come from Nerijus Valskis. The Lithuanian is heavily marked and is given no space to work with on the edge of the box.

So, he has to evolve his style of play to be a step ahead of the opposition defenders. It is a challenge in itself, but considering his enigma and stature, he should pass with flying colours.

Benjamin Lambot (NorthEast United)

The responsibility of keeping the side together will be shouldered by the big Belgian. Benjamin Lambot has been one of the most consistent players for the Highlanders this season and in a situation like this, he needs to lead by example for his younger teammates. He will also take up the responsibility of keeping Valskis at bay.

Did You Know?

• Nerijus Valskis has the best shooting accuracy (73.7%) among players with at least 10 shots in the ongoing season. He has 19 shots, out of which 14 have been on target.
• Jamshedpur FC has received the most red cards in this season (4), two more than any other team in the league.
• The Highlanders are yet to win a match against Jamshedpur FC.

Telecast

The live telecast of the match between Jamshedpur FC vs NorthEast United FC will be available on Star Sports Network from 5:00 PM IST on Sunday. The match will be available on several regional languages apart from English. Live streaming of the match will also be available on Hotstar and Jio TV.

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