Delhi Dynamos FC will play their first Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) match of 2019 against Kerala Blasters FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Thursday. The Lions endured a poor first half to their campaign are almost certain to finish outside the top four. However, Josep Gombau’s men will look to finish the season strongly and salvage some pride.

Ahead of the tie against Kerala, indiansuperleague.com caught up with Delhi midfielder Vinit Rai for an interview. Here are the excerpts:

How was your AFC Asian Cup experience?

I really learned a lot of things. I didn’t get a chance to play there but had the opportunity to observe the players at that level, the way they play and the way they keep themselves prepared for every match. I’ve learned so many things from my teammates too. So, it was a really good experience for me and I hope I’ll play next time.

How has it been returning to Delhi Dynamos FC after the break?

Yeah, it really feels good to be back with the team again and the guys were working hard in Doha in pre-season. They went there and are really fit at the moment. We all are really focused for our remaining matches in this season.

Thoughts on the Pritam Kotal’s departure.

Pritam Kotal was a very good right-back for us and he was a very important player for us, but it’s football. We have to look forward now. I know it’s going to affect us a little bit but that’s part of football. Now, we have a new captain and we’re looking forward to doing really well in our remaining matches.

Thoughts on the match.

Kerala Blasters FC have a new coach now. Last time we played them they had David James and now they have a new coach. He will have new tactics and we don’t know them now, how they play. But I think we are really well prepared now.

Read the match preview here.