Jamshedpur are a much-improved side, asserts Owen Coyle

The head coach spoke ahead of his team's final game of the ISL 2020-21 season.

For one last time this season, Jamshedpur FC will feature in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2020-21 and they are keen to end their season on a high note when they go up against Bengaluru FC. Although the Men of Steel are out of the playoffs race, they have been entertaining throughout the campaign under Owen Coyle, who spoke in the pre-match press conference on Wednesday.

Approach in last match

When questioned about the approach of the Men of Steel he said, "The approach is just like any other game, we want to win and we want to replicate the performance from the other night against Mumbai City.

"To do that, we have to be at our very best. The boys have worked hard and came very close to achieving the playoffs. So, we want to finish on a strong note and for that, we have to play really well. Bengaluru obviously have their AFC Cup to play, so they will be very focused and make sure that they are ready for those games. We have to be ready for that challenge," he further added.

Improvements from last season

Jamshedpur FC have looked like a formidable side than last season and just because of a bad phase, the Men of Steel are out of the playoffs race. However, Coyle highlighted the improvements the club have made this season.

"I think there is no doubt that we have improved from what Jamshedpur was last year. In terms of our aspirations, it was to reach the playoffs and that is obviously a disappointing factor for us and we believe that a number of things have gone against us. But, that being said, we have shown that we can go toe-to-toe with the best teams in the league. So, there have been many positives. We will look to finish the season strongly, look to add more things next season and certainly look to get into the top four positions," he explained.

Areas to improve

When quizzed about the improvements that Owen Coyle would like to see in the team, the former Wigan manager opted for solidity at the back and flair upfront for the upcoming season.

"I think I would want to have that solidity at the back that we have had with all the clean-sheets, as we have progressed on as the season went on. We would look to rectify the goals that we conceded in the initial matches and then also coming back after the break we conceded some goals. We would like to get back to our best in getting those clean-sheets," he said, before adding, "But, if you want to add something then I would add more flair and creativity, so that we get the balance between the things, solid at the back but still very creative and looking to score more goals.

Message for supporters

Lastly, Owen Coyle thanked the supporters for their relentless support and also revealed how the team is gearing to play at the Furnace next season.

"We would like to say our fans thank you for supporting us, the players and staff certainly felt that. We are obviously looking forward to playing in front of you in a fantastic stadium which is mostly sold out for every home game. So, we want to give them a team that is pleasing to the eye and also a team that can win and get to the playoffs," he signed off.

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