Kolkata:East Bengal suffered yet another jolt as Nigerian forward Ranty Martins has injured his hamstring today at the practice. Ranty was seen limping from the ground. Although East Bengal team management has assured that Ranty’s injury is not so serious but still clouds are hovering over his availability.
Yesterday East Bengal right back Samad Ali Mallick severely injured his head and had 10 stitches on his head. Although doctor had advised him to take rest but Samad did practice today with the team. Team management seems to be very happy with Samad’s dedication and if Samad himself wants to play in the Salgaocar match he will be included in the starting eleven as every team has to field a Under 22 player which is mandatory.
Meanwhile Sehnaj Singh who got injured in the first match against Sporting Clube de Goa is fully fit. Till now Mehtab and Bernard Mendy was playing in the central midfield. But with Sehnaj being fit coach Biswajit Bhattacharya is facing a little bit of selection dilemma. Mendy can play as both Attacking and defensive midfielder. Now it’s upon the Red and Gold head coach to decide whom he selects in the starting eleven.
Assistant coach Sammy Omollo feels that the upcoming match against Salgaocar is very important if East Bengal wants to be in the title race. “We need 3 points from the Salgaocar match. Mohun Bagan lost points against Lajong and we have to utilise the advantage. If we manage to get the 3 points we will finish the first leg in a comfortable position.”
On being asked about Do Dong Hyun, the Kenyan added,” Sanju played well in the previous match. Do Dong has to work very hard if he wants to get a chance in the first eleven. We want the old Dong back which we had seen in the CFL” he signed off.