(Football news) ATK Mohun Bagan are set to take on Odisha FC in the battle for a top four spot in the Indian Super League table at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda on Saturday. ATKMB have not lost under new manager Juan Ferrando, the Spaniard has steadied the ship after a run of poor results but they would like to get back to winning ways after a 2-2 draw against Hyderabad FC. Another concern for their side is a leaky defense, conceding 18 goals in 9 games and Ferrando will hope to bolster his backline against Odisha FC’s attacking prowess.
The ‘home’ team will be without the services of Hugo Boumous who is suspended after receiving his fourth yellow card. The Frenchman is an integral part of Juan Ferrando’s set up, having scored five and assisted three and it will be interesting to see how they cope without their joint highest top scorer. "In my point of view, I think for everybody the problem is when you have no chances. We have chances. Of course, we have (had) 20 chances. I think it is good for the squad. But in case you have no chances, this case is difficult. We'll see. We have prepared one plan. We'll see what happens. We decided on this plan to find the best lineup," said Ferrando on being asked if both Roy Krishna and David Williams can start together.
Odisha FC’s captain Vinit Rai has transferred to Mumbai City FC on loan until the end of the season which means Jerry Mawihmingthanga will lead the side and the 24 year old has been in red hot form this campaign, scoring twice and providing one assist against the reigning champions. "They (ATKMB) are one of the biggest teams in ISL. So after the draw, they will be hungry to win. Of course, it is good that a lot of teams get a chance to be in the top 4. Also, I have to understand the format of the competition. We have matches every 3-5 days. This makes it tough for every team. I think it's good for the competition," Head Coach Kiko Ramirez said, conscious of the opponents on Saturday.
A win will push Odisha FC to a top four spot as they are currently seventh on the Indian Super League table with 13 points from nine games.
Also read: Jamshedpur FC progress into third place after narrow win over NorthEast United
