Red and Gold players determined to overcome the shock defeat against Aizawl FC
Kolkata: East Bengal were dealt a huge blow on Wednesday as star striker Willis Plaza is likely to miss the all important I League clash coming up against Bengaluru FC on Saturday. The Trinidadian footballer suffered a groin injury against Aizawl FC and had to be substituted in the second half. Plaza was taken for a MRI scan on Wednesday.
According to East Bengal coach Trevor Morgan, “I have no idea what is the status of his (Plaza) injury. He has gone for a scan and will only come to know after we get his report.”
Meanwhile the Red and Gold footballers had a rigorous training session at the Bidhan Nagar Municipal Corporation ground. Club’s top official Debabrata Sarkar was present during the practice to encourage the footballers.
“I had a word with the coach and the players individually. The players have given their commitment that they will give their 200 percent and bring back the lost glory in matches ahead.”
He further added, “Players have to overcome this.This is part of football as you cannot win all the matches. The players need to recover. I am confident this group has the ability to bounce back.”
Side back Rahul Bheke is also in doubts for the tie against Bengaluru FC. He is having a hamstring injury and will need a rest for a few days to fully recover. But the good news for Morgan is Gurwinder and Lobo is getting back to full fitness.
Bengaluru FC was also dealt a blow as their star defender John Johnson is also likely to miss the tie on Saturday. The British defender suffered a rib injury and has been suggested to take rest. Johnson’s absence in Bengaluru central defence will come as a huge boost for East Bengal.
According to Morgan, “He is a top player. It will be a huge advantage for us if he does not play against us.”
On being asked about the all important match coming up against Bengaluru, Morgan said, “They are all big matches for us. We have done particularly well in that first leg. We got a slight hiccup at the start of second leg. Hopefully we can get back to winning ways against Bengaluru”.
The gaffer was heavily criticized in the media after the loss against Aizawl. Club secretary Kalyan Majumder, always a staunch critic of Morgan recently criticised his strategy openly in media. But Morgan himself is unperturbed.
“There is nothing to read too much into it. Nitu (Debabrata Sarkar) has come and given his absolute support. You don’t go to bed at night and wake up in the morning to play bad football. It doesn’t happen that way. I think we got to the top of the table with consistent performance. We have to get back that consistency,” said Morgan.
East Bengal footballers had a productive discussion with Morgan in the change room. The team management is taking 20 players to Bengaluru. Morgan did hint about some changes in the squad that played against Aizawl FC. Both Willis Plaza and Rahul Bheke is doubtful for Saturday’s clash.
“We are taking 20 players with us. Obviously there is going to be some changes. Willis Plaza and Rahul Bheke are injured. Lalrindika Dika is suspended. So, there will be some changes at those spot,” indicated Morgan after today’s practice session.
East Bengal club is in talks with the AIFF about having their remaining home matches at Rabindra Sarobar stadium.
Later today Plaza’s MRI report was out and as per MRI the injury is not too serious as Plaza needs a rest of one week to get recovered and get back to playing condition.