NorthEast United FC welcome Kerala Blasters FC in their Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 match at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Saturday. Coming off the back of three consecutive defeats and having picked up just a point in their last five fixtures, the Highlanders are out of contention for the playoffs. Lalrindika Ralte has played his part on the flanks and in midfield for the Highlanders but he will be a disappointed person, especially after winning the Hero ISL title with ATK last season. He spoke to indiansuperleague.com on the eve of the match and shared his thoughts. Here are the excerpts.

How do you think the Hero ISL has revolutionised Indian football?

It brings a lot of opportunities for young players and for us Indians, we have a good chance to work with the big players. We have a good coach like Avram Grant, and last season I played alongside (Helder) Postiga. So ISL is a big platform for all the young stars and a big opportunities for all the new players.

What do you do when you get some time off?

Well most of the time I am in the treatment room getting a massage. Other than that, I like listening to music and watching my other mates.

How easy has it been to gel with your teammates?

Most of the players are new here in India, especially the foreigners. So, it was not easy. But we have been together for the last four months. So, we understand each other now.

What do you love the most about your position?

I can play as a winger and as a midfielder. It depends on the coach and the formation. I love to play in midfield.

Do you feel luck has not been on your team’s side this season?

It has been difficult for us. When I got to my family and friends, they say I really play well. Yes, it looks like we don’t have luck but we have to try harder to score goals. So, everything will come from hard work and practice.

What kind of a game are you expecting from an in-form Kerala Blasters FC?

They are a very good side. They have big players like (Dimitar) Berbatov and Wes Brown, and they are very experienced. So, all we need to do is work with our plan, stick together and not give up till the end. We will give our best and I hope we will win the match.

Any message for the NorthEast fans?

They are amazing! Because of our poor performance, they are not turning up in the stadium. But they have to support us till the end. We will try our best as much as we can.