Jamshedpur FC played their second consecutive goalless draw of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Friday. Returning to Kochi in Jamshedpur colours after three years with Kerala Blasters was Mehtab Hossain. The influential midfielder won the Hero of the Match award for his efforts, and had a fascinating duel with Dimitar Berbatov throughout the game. He spoke to indiansuperleague.com post the match, and here are excerpts from the interview:

Mehtab, how do you feel coming back here?

Obviously, I got the home feeling which felt good! Playing in front of such a huge crowd always feels good. Last three years, I played for Kerala Blasters and the supporters always cheer for you here, whether you win or lose. So, the support here is amazing. I have played for East Bengal for many years too, and their supporters are similar. The more supporters you get, the better it feels.

The game was very physical.

Yes, obviously, it will become more intense as the league continues. The teams will become fitter and in better shape. Right now, the teams are still new.

And the midfield battle was very crucial between you and (Dimitar) Berbatov. Tell us something about that.

Actually, I am feeling very proud to have played against someone like Berbatov. He was one of the best strikers in Europe. He has played a lot of matches for Manchester United and his country. So, it feels really good to have played against him.

Lastly, are you happy with the point from a difficult game?

Well, we should have got a goal from the counter attack at the end. Our aim was to hit them on the counter and score, while letting them play their passing game. It would have been good had that happened. But we got a point in the end, and I am happy.