Owen Coyle’s Chennaiyin FC is set to face off against Jamshedpur FC in their upcoming fixture of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 at the JRD Tata Sports Complex this Thursday. The Marina Machans have struggled to find their rhythm at the beginning of the 2023-24 season and are eager to gain momentum by securing a victory against the Men of Steel.
Owen Coyle, the head coach of Chennaiyin FC, has a history with Jamshedpur FC, having served as their head coach in the past when they clinched the Indian Super League Shield in the 2021-22 season. Coyle acknowledges the tough challenge that lies ahead for Chennaiyin FC but remains optimistic, considering it a winnable game. Accompanying him in the pre-match press conference was winger Ninthoinganba Meetei. Here are the highlights from their discussion –
Owen Coyle on getting a positive result against the Red Miners
Discussing recent team performances, Owen Coyle expressed admiration for his players and their dedication to the club’s future goals, as he added, “Want to win every game. Our performances have been of a high standard. The lads have been playing well despite injuries and suspensions. What we are doing is building something and making it sustainable for the long term.”
“We go to a tough venue with an amazing set of supporters. Every home game there is sold out. Jamshedpur FC is amazing. We are looking forward to the game and it’s one that we can win,” Coyle added when asked about the upcoming challenge of playing against Jamshedpur FC on their home turf, he shared his thoughts.
On how Chennaiyin FC will be approaching the game
Owen Coyle emphasizes the significance of a well-rounded performance as Chennaiyin FC braces to take on Jamshedpur FC. According to him, securing victory demands excellence both in defensive resilience and attacking prowess. Coyle underscores the team’s need to strike a balance, ensuring a formidable presence at the back while unleashing a potent offensive strategy against their formidable opponents.
He added, “Jamshedpur FC is strong defensively. We don’t change the way we play. We play to win games. As a group, we need to defend better. We have created the most big chances in the league which shows our creativity and the quality we have in wide areas. We will continue to try to play on the front foot.”
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On the devasting effect caused by Cyclone Michaung
In light of the recent devastation caused by Cyclone Michaung in Chennai, Owen Coyle stressed the importance of maintaining perspective. Addressing concerns about training amidst the challenging circumstances, Coyle reflected on the broader impact the cyclone had on the city and its residents.
Coyle mentioned, “The team will be ready for the game. No, we did not train for a few days (because of the cyclone) but our thoughts and prayers from the whole football club are with everybody in the city and people who tragically lost their lives. We have a football game to play but in the grand scheme of things, we did not train but we got to have some perspective.”
Ninthoinganba Meetei on the season so far
Accompanying the head coach in the press conference, Ninthoinganba Meetei shared insights on his recovery from injury and expressed a keen desire for improvement. Reflecting on his performances, Meetei emphasized the ongoing journey of enhancing his skills and contributing positively to the team’s success. His commitment to personal growth aligns with the collective aspirations of Chennaiyin FC for the upcoming challenges in the league.
He said, “I am not doing enough right now. But, to help the club go higher in the table, I hope to do well in the coming matches and give my best. Post that injury, I am slowly getting better, stronger. Thanks to the coach for supporting me and pushing me every day” the winger said referring to his recovery from a recent injury that kept him out of action.“
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