Objective against Odisha is to win, asserts Alison Kharsyntiew

The Highlanders have a chance to move into the top four with a win on Sunday.

NorthEast United aim to continue their unbeaten run of six matches against bottom-placed Odisha FC in the Indian Super League. A win against the Juggernauts will see the Highlanders climb into the top four. Ahead of their game, NorthEast United assistant coach Alison Kharsyntiew spoke to the media.

Plan for Odisha

Odisha have been playing good football in their last few matches despite the results. On being asked how they are planning for their match against the Juggernauts, the former Shillong Lajong boss stated, “They have done really well in the last game against Kerala Blasters. We have to go tomorrow with the right mentality and give our best effort to win the game.”

Not focusing on other teams

With Hyderabad dropping points against East Bengal, the advantage now falls in the hands of NorthEast United in the race for the top four. The 33-year-old, however, stated that they are not focusing on the other teams. ”The main thing is that we don’t concentrate on other games, but on our performance. We will try our best tomorrow to get the three points.”

No place for complacency

Despite the recent run of good results and their opponents for the next game, the Highlanders’ assistant coach made it clear that his team won’t get complacent. “We go there with a very serious attitude. Like I said, tomorrow we have to show the right mentality and be hungry. That’s the main thing. Our main objective is to win tomorrow’s match.”

Room for improvement

Further, Alison Kharsyntiew also talked about what his team need to work on after their goalless draw against Hyderabad. “I think we need to be more clinical once we reach the final third and need to utilize the chances that we get.”

Subhasish Roy Chowdhury on Diego Mauricio & Indian youngsters

Joining Alison Kharsyntiew in the press conference was goalkeeper and captain Subhasish Roy Chowdhury. The Highlanders’ No. 1 is wary of the threat posed by Odisha forward Diego Mauricio. “He is a good striker. We are planning, but we can’t say it’s enough. We can see after the match. Obviously, he is a good player, but we are also ready.”

The 34-year-old also talked about the youngsters in the team. “We have lots of good young Indian players. Some players are playing in the ISL for the first time. All the players are very good. Now, Khalid (Jamil) sir is here, so he is giving good advice and good teachings.”

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