Kolkata derby has always been one of the biggest traditions for the Bengali community across the globe. Derby always extracts “extra” efforts and demands “special” performances from the players as well as the coaches. This time, both the teams will come with a high morale after having a bright start to this I-League and that makes this derby even more interesting.
In a league format, it’s always good to have a great start and when you have two wins out of two, it gives an added advantage to plan for the next match. But derby match is something different from other matches. So, I can’t say that we are in an advantageous position. My boys are fit and raring to win the first derby of the year 2016.
As we all know, derby is always a mind game. I am happy with the arrival of Sony Norde just at the nick of time as he will get the required time to get used to with the conditions. He’s fit and will be available for the derby. I can tell you, that, Sony Norde’s inclusion may put some extra pressure on my arch rivals in the big derby.
Traditionally, Bengal players are born either with East Bengal or Mohun Bagan backgrounds. They grow up with the usual flavour of Derby’s essence. Definitely it is important for the Bengali boys of both the teams to perform at their peak. I’m happy as I have quite a few extremely talented Bengali players who know the pride of playing and winning a Kolkata derby.
I have told my boys not to follow what is going around outside of the field. Just focus yourself and be mentally strong. I believe that is important for a team ahead of playing any big match. The boys are resolved to put up a quality performance as well. They know how important this to maintain the winning run is.
Talking about Bishu da on the opposite bench, I can say that I am facing East Bengal Club on 23rd January in the I-League, not any individual. I respect the entire East Bengal side and hope this would be a great game of football.
If we manage to win the derby, it will be a great moral boosting effect for us but you have to play another 13 matches. Nevertheless, winning a derby is always special and I’m working hard with my side so that they can give their best to clinch the big clash of titans.
This season Mohun Bagan have signed some amazing talents, remembering the requirement of playing three top graded tournaments. As a coach, at times it is really difficult to select an ideal eleven. But I’m enjoying this challenge. It’s always good to have so many talented players in the reserve bench which gives a lot of confidence to the coach as well as it becomes challenging to pick the right players at the right time.
There would be so many supporters who will be cheering for the Green & Maroon brigade on Saturday. I am pleading them to support and cheer for us as much as possible. But, at the end of the day, it is a football match, so please keep the rivalry within the ground and present a peaceful experience of witnessing the oldest football derby in Asia to the others. Keep on supporting us when the things are not going well as well. That will bring more glory to the Club.