Kolkata: Former Manchester United striker and currently the Head Coach of ATK is drawing inspiration from Steve Cooper’s Young Lions side which lifted the FIFA U17 World Cup in Kolkata few days back.
“I was very impressed with them, they played in very unusual style, controlling the ball from the back. We didn’t see an awful lot of them play as we were in Dubai for our pre season camp. We did watch the Young Lions play on the television in Dubai. I hope we will be able to take the lead into the ISL season,” the former Manchester United striker told reporters after their jersey unveiling.
The two times ISL champions will be without the Spanish influence this season as Sheringham has brought along with him another Manchester United academy graduate Ashley Westwood. On being asked whether the fans will get to watch English style of football, Sheringham said, “It will be more of British style because that’s what I know and hopefully it will be good enough for ATK. I also look forward to the Indian players and how they adapt. I’m looking forward to integrating both the Indian players and foreign players as one team.”
The Brit will be under a bit of pressure as his predecessors have proved to be successful, winning the trophy twice in three years.
“Yes, there will be pressure no doubt. I put myself under pressure as soon I took the job. My name is on the line to do well. It’s just the profession we are in as it is expected from us to put up a good performance on the field.
Asked about the quality of Indian players in the side, a pleased Sheringham said,“My perception for Indian football is only what I have seen over the last 3 and half weeks during the camp in Dubai. I am very impressed with the Indian footballers wanting to learn.”
The two-time ISL Champions unveiled their new official team jersey for the forthcoming season, a symbol of passion for the team and announced the kickstart of preparations for the fourth season in style. Mr. Sanjiv Goenka, Chairman RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, Principal Owner, ATK along with Mr. Teddy Sheringham, Head Coach, ATK and Mr. Robbie Keane, Star Forward, ATK unveiled the jersey and shared the management’s plans for the upcoming fourth edition of Indian Super League.
The red, blue and white jersey bring to life the energy and the burning passion that makes ATK a team with an edge. The progressive bold stripe design patterns capture a sense of high speed acceleration, with a brilliant balance to back it. The arch design form embodies inclusiveness and the will of the team to win as a unit. The vibrant colours, woven in modern design patterns, together bring about a sense a formidable force, eager to push limits.