I-League: Armando’s man management skills will benefit us – East Bengal skipper Mehtab Hossain

East Bengal captain Mehtab Hossain stated ahead of Sunday’s derby against Mohun Bagan that the whole squad is adapting well under new coach Armando Colaco. It will be Armando’s debut as East Bengal boss but Mehtab doesn’t believe that will give his side any disadvantage.

“He is new at East Bengal but is not new to Indian football. He knows almost every player and I personally am very happy to have him because it was under him that I returned to the national team. He is a very successful coach and his man management skills will benefit us,” the midfield general told in the joint pre-match press conference at the Mohun Bagan ground on Friday.

The India international admitted that playing for club and country hasn’t been easy for him physically but is still ready to give his very best on Sunday.

“I won’t lie about being tired because I have been playing constantly for my club and the national team. But every match I try to give my 200%, whether it is against George Telegraph or Mohun Bagan. There is huge pressure as always for this fixture but three points are the most important aspect and that’s what we are focusing on,” he said.

The former Mohun Bagan medio remains optimistic that the ugly scenes of the infamous December 9th derby won’t be repeated and requested the fans to maintain harmony.

“I think everybody has learnt their lesson from that match and I hope that it won’t be repeated. It is very important for the fans to accept defeat if it comes otherwise the joy of winning won’t be the same. I request everybody to enjoy, support but maintain peace and the same goes for the players also,” he concluded.