Kolkata: Defending champions and one of the most successful side in the Indian Super League, games have however not turned out to be as expected this season for ATK, who are yet to win a match, with two draws and a shambolic defeat against FC Pune in the three matches they have played so far. Head coach Teddy Sheringham is however optimistic of lady fortune coming their way soon.
“This has not been the best starts. It’s not good for the reigning champions. There have been a few setbacks along the way but I believe we are not far away. We are trying to do something. We must do better and we remain positive,” said Sheringham at the pre-match press conference.
The two-time ISL winners find themselves in the bottom position with just two points from three matches and lack of a killer striker has hampered their cause, the Englishmen however believes that it is too early days in the league to consider teams based on points table. “We had two good away games. Very happy with the way things are transforming. We need to be converting our possession and chances into goals. We have plenty of players in the squad that can score goals,” he said.
Ace striker and marquee signing of ATK Robbie Keane who was expected to return against Chennaiyin will however have to wait a little longer, as Teddy feels that this fixture may have come ‘far too early’ for the Irish legend. The striker’s injury is however the only concern for the Kolkata based franchise with Eugeneson Lyngdoh suffering, what seems to be long-term injury.
“He has a bad knee. But we are hoping to see some specialists for second opinion to know exactly what the matter is,” added the former Manchester Untied forward.
The coach is however aware of the threat the former champions possess and although a point will be satisfactory, win is what is on his mind.
“We need to win away games and that is going to be a challenge for us,” said Sheringham ahead of the match.
Chennaiyin on the other hand are bubbling with confidence after two back-to-back wins against NorthEast United and FC Pune City and just can’t wait to get started at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Their defence since that 3-2 loss against FC Goa have been in fine form and have not conceded any goal in the last two matches.
“It shows the characters that I have on the team — real passion and deep-lying characters — players that will keep going regardless of what’s happening on the pitch. The experienced guys and also the six Indian boys played very well against Goa in the second half,” said head coach John Gregory.
Separated only by goal difference to Bengaluru FC, the ‘Marina Machans’ are second on the table and Gregory reiterated that although ATK are a tough side, his boys are ready for the kill.