Juan Ferrando gives update on McHugh, Kiko Ramirez wary about ATKMB

Ferrando also revealed that he is not worried about the Mariners' defensive woes.

ATK Mohun Bagan, led by Juan Ferrando will aim to continue their surge up the points table but in Odisha FC they will take on an opponent who are high on confidence when the two sides meet in the 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda on Saturday.

ATKMB haven't lost a game under Juan Ferrando and the Spaniard has steadied the ship after a string of poor performances that pushed them out of the top four. In their last outing, the Mariners were held to a 2-2 draw by Hyderabad FC but two wins before that ensured they stayed inside the top-four.

Odisha are seventh in the table with 13 points from nine games and can push for a top-four place with a win. Ahead of the clash, both teams' head coaches - Juan Ferrando and Kiko Ramirez - spoke to the media.

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ATK Mohun Bagan coach Juan Ferrando

Thoughts on Odisha FC match-up

Juan Ferrando: I think in this moment it’s a complicate game because we know Odisha started the season well. They’re a good team in attack and defence. It’s necessary to be ready to fight for 90 minutes because you have to be focused in details. For example, in their last win over Mumbai, after being down 1-2 they changed their plans and win the game. It’s important to be ready throughout 90 minutes and not lose our focus because it’ll 100% be a difficult game.

Worry about ATKMB's defence

Juan Ferrando: No, I think we have a plan and we’re working in this plan. Of course, we ned to improve with our defensive work. Sometimes it’s difficult because of injuries, but I trust in my players 100%. The most important thing is that everybody is ready to help the team.

Concern about OFC's attacking prowess

Juan Ferrando: I think it’s necessary to put attention on certain points. In the last game, I know that Mumbai conceded the last 2 goals because Odisha’s transition from defence into attack was perfect. It’s necessary to put focus on that details.

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Update on CarlMcHugh

Juan Ferrando: Of course, at the moment, we’re waiting to hear from the doctors. It’s necessary to wait 24-48 hours for reports. It’s about his health. For us the most important is that the feelings about him are good with every day. The most important thing is his health because we are very scared about the situation.

I don’t know when he'll be back to training. At this moment, it’s difficult to reveal that. It’s difficult, firstly because it’s his health and second it depends on his recovery on different people. Some people need 2-3 days and some need 7. It depends on the post-traumatic period for Carl. We’re close to him and will help him.

OFC coach Kiko Ramirez

Thoughts on ATK Mohun Bagan

Kiko Ramirez: It's a dangerous match. They are one of the strongest teams in ISL. After drawing their last game they will be hungry to get the three points.

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Reason for Vinit Rai's loan move to Mumbai City

Kiko Ramirez: As a coach I have to do what’s best for the team. My job is to work with the rest of the players and do what’s best for them. Also, the player wanted to leave and the club took its decision.

Mood in the camp after MCFC win

Kiko Ramirez: We are happy that after losing to Hyderabad FC the boys reacted positively and managed to pull off this sort of a result against a big team. It means we can compete with any team in the competition. It gives confidence to the players.

About the play-off race

Kiko Ramirez: Of course it’s good for the league. But the important thing is where you finish at the end of the season. We are in an important phase of the season.

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