Goa: Kolkata Giants SC East Bengal will be starting their campaign in the eighth edition of the Indian Super League with a clash against Jamshedpur FC on Sunday.
Following an underwhelming debut last season, finishing at the 9th position gaining only three wins out of 20, East Bengal went on a complete revamping of squad this season. From bringing in former Real Madrid Castilla coach Manuel’Manolo’Diaz to bringing in a complete new set of players like Amir Dervisevic, Tomislav Mrcela, Darren Sidoel to Indians like Arindam Bhattacharya, the century old club is more than prepared for the new season. With young talents like Sidoel,Amarjit Singh Kiyam along with experienced players like Arindam, Dervisevic, Mrcela , Raju Gaikwad SCEB does have all it need to attain a top finish. However, with a new squad the problem lies in the doubt how the team will fare in co-ordination.
On their opponents, boss Manuel Diaz said: “Jamshedpur FC have been together for some time. The squad does not have too many changes. We have a new team. We know what we need to do and do our best.”
Daniel Chima Chukwu is expected to lead the line for the red and gold brigade, and Diaz said the Nigerian forward should be able to help the team in scoring goals and creating chances.
“We know Chima’s skills. He is a very good player. He can help us in getting the goals, also for helping other teammates. But Chima needs the team and Chima will improve his level when the whole team works together
As for the opponents, Jamshedpur FC is one of the favourites to be in the top four of the competition. Coyle will also look to the services of forward Jordan Murray and Eli Sabia in attack and defence respectively. Both players have ISL experience and will look to add value to the side. Jamshedpur custodian TP Rehenesh, who performed brilliantly last season will also be the one to watch our for. Attacking midfielder Greg Stewart, who joined the Red Miners from Scottish champions Rangers FC, will be the one to look out for along with Indian U23 talents Jitendra Singh, Narender Gahlot , Farukh Chowdhury and former FC Goa star Ishan Pandita.
