Need to continue with same rhythm, asserts Khalid Jamil

The tactician spoke about preparations ahead of tomorrow’s game, importance of Deshorn Brown and more.

Indian Super League (ISL) side NorthEast United will turn out against their eastern counterparts Odisha FC to unfold their fifth match of the 2021-22 campaign. Khalid Jamil's side snatched a late victory in their last outing against FC Goa and will be keen to move forward with the same momentum. 

Head coach Khalid Jamil and young midfielder Pragyan Gogoi interacted with the media ahead of their match tomorrow:

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Mood in dressing room

NorthEast United accumulated their first three points of the season against FC Goa last time out. Khalid said that his boys are confident post that victory against Goa.

“Everybody is having confidence now and we must fight. Coming back to the last game, we did a good job, everybody worked hard. We must continue with the same rhythm," he replied. 

Thoughts on Odisha FC

Odisha FC started their campaign in a bright fashion and have two wins in three games. Sharing his thoughts on his opponents tomorrow, Jamil said they’re a strong team

“They’re a good side. They started well and played well in their three matches. We’ve to be alert and this match is very important for us. We’ve to be defensively strong and attacking sharp. ”

Preparations ahead of tomorrow’s game 

As mentioned earlier, Odisha have started their season on the front foot. Khalid Jamil said he’s not taking this game lightly.

“Talking about this game, we play a tough opponent in Odisha FC. They started very well and have quality players and foreigners. So, we’ve to be alert and not take this match lightly. 

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“Everybody who is going to play must work hard and give everything. We worked very hard in the last game and that’s why we got the result. This time also we’ve to work hard from the 1st to the 90th minute,” he asserted.

Defensive woes

The Highlanders have leaked seven goals in just four matches this season. They’ve a very fragile backline and Odisha FC on the other hand, possess one of the most clinical attacking contingents in the league. 

“They’re a good team so, we’ve to be alert. Talking about our team, we must play our own game and this game is very important. We’ve to work hard, we did a good job in the last game, so we’ve to maintain it.” He opined.

Federico Gallego’s injury

In a sudden turn of events, the Highlanders’ talisman Federico Gallego has been sidelined for the rest of the season. NorthEast United have the option to replace the Uruguayan either now or in the winter transfer window. When quizzed about when we can expect Gallego’s replacement to arrive in India, Khalid said, “Now, we’re thinking about the next match. Maybe after one week we’ll see what is the situation.”

Importance of Deshorn Brown

With Federico Gallego ruled out for the rest of the season, the onus to lead the team from the front has come to Deshorn Brown. Khalid Jamil described the Jamaican to be his most important player.

“He played 15 minutes in the last game and it was important for us. We need him from this game to the end of the season. He’s going to be the most important player for us,” Khalid stated.

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Jamil was accompanied by player Pragyan Gogoi who has stepped in on important occasions. Sharing his thoughts on the season so far, Gogoi said, “I want to thank sir (Khalid Jamil) for giving me this opportunity. We’re very excited and ready for the next match against Odisha FC and we’re confident,”

The young midfielder partnered with Khassa Camara in the middle of the park in a few games this season. Sharing his thoughts on playing alongside the highly experienced Mauritanian international, Pragyan said, “He’s like my big brother. He’s guiding me both on and off the pitch. It’s been a pleasure to play alongside him.”

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