Unrest within East Bengal camp ahead of Federation Cup tie against Lajong

Currently preparing for a Federation Cup encounter against Shillong Lajong, East Bengal are looking to overcome their narrow I-league disappointment. The frustration seemed to manifest itself on the field as the players got into an argument, during a practice session at Central Park.

Midfielder Mehtab Hussain tackled Dika, much to the latter's disgust. Both players were seen in a small scuffle, before Harmanjot Singh Khabra rushed in to stop the fight. The altercation lasted for a good 30 seconds, before a dismayed Mehtab walked off the field.

Newly appointed Coach Trevor Morgan didn't comment on the issue. A source within East Bengal's hierarchy said, “These things happen in football, each and every club has these incidents from time to time. Football is a game of aggression, so this will happen. There are hard feelings between both the players.”

He added, “We are completely focussed on winning the tournaments, as the boys are disappointed with losing out on the I-league. Under new Coach Morgan, who knows the ropes very well, the club is positive about future titles. We are only concentrating on the football.”

Morgan's men face Lajong in a tricky away tie at Lajong, who are buoyed by a successful relegation battle. The North East club finished sixth with 18 points from 16 games.

Meanwhile, East Bengal will be without the services former Paris St. Germain defender Bernand Mendy.

More to follow..