Jamshedpur: Head Coach Owen Coyle has made it clear that Jamshedpur FC will adopt an attacking, fearless approach when they take on Mohammedan SC, insisting that his side will “never play for a draw” in the upcoming Indian Super League fixture.
Addressing the media ahead of the clash, Coyle spoke candidly about the introduction of promotion and relegation in the ISL. Having managed extensively in the United Kingdom, he described relegation as a familiar challenge but emphasized that his team’s focus remains firmly on competing at the top end of the table.
“Relegation is something I’ve been used to throughout my career in the UK, where there is always jeopardy. But our focus is not on that. We aim to compete at the top end of the table, finish as high as possible, and be a team that is both entertaining and winning games, ” he said.
Short Pre-season, Strong Commitment
Coyle admitted that the abbreviated pre-season posed challenges, with the coaching staff attempting to condense six weeks of preparation into just three. However, he praised the professionalism and commitment of his squad.
“The pre-season wasn’t ideal, but the players have been fantastic. They’ve worked extremely hard and are committed to giving their best for the club and the fans.”
Unity Key to Success
When asked about the key to a successful campaign, Coyle highlighted unity as the cornerstone of the team’s ambitions. “We have talented individuals, but our strength will always be as a group. In a short season, there will be difficult moments, but we must stay true to our belief and approach every game with the intent to win.”
Despite competing against financially stronger teams in the league, Coyle maintained that belief and performance levels would matter more than budgets. “There are big clubs that spend more than us, but we don’t worry about that. If we are at our very best, we believe we can win against anyone.”
Strategy Against Mohammedan SC
On the upcoming contest, Coyle acknowledged that Mohammedan SC would be highly motivated. “They’ll be spirited and united. We must respect them, but our approach is to play with high intensity, pass and move the ball, be positive from the first minute, take our chances, and stay solid defensively.”
No Playing for Draws
With the league following a single-round format, Coyle dismissed any notion of a cautious approach in away fixtures. “We never play for draws. We play to win every game. Three points are invaluable, and our intent is always to be aggressive, positive, and on the front foot, ” he said.
Squad Fitness and Leadership
Regarding team fitness, the coach reported only minor concerns. He said, “Just one or two minor niggles, which is normal in a short pre-season. I’m hopeful we’ll have a full squad available. Every player is important, whether they start one game or many.”
Explaining the decision to appoint four captains, Coyle underlined the collective leadership model within the squad. “Leadership is not about one armband. We have several players capable of leading. Appointing four captains shows we are together as a group. On any given day, any of them can lead the team out, ” he added
With confidence high and a clear attacking philosophy in place, Jamshedpur FC appear determined to begin their ISL campaign on the front foot.
