Bengaluru FC gear up to welcome Kerala Blasters FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on Thursday in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18. The Blues were the first team to seal semi-final qualification, which however has not lessened their winning intent as they are currently at the back of a seven-match unbeaten streak. Their captain Sunil Chhetri has led the debutants from the front, going on to become the first Indian player to score 10 goals in a single Hero ISL season. On the eve of their last league-phase fixture, the 33-year-old took time to address indiansuperleague.com and shared his thoughts on his team, the season and more. Here are the excerpts.

How proud are you of the performance of the squad?

I am very happy and very proud of the club and its players. It’s not only because of the players that the team has made it to the last four. Right from the owner Sajjan Jindal, to our coaching staff, to our back-room official, to our ball boys, I think everyone’s combined effort is the reason why we are where we are. I just want to give them the due because they have all worked very hard.

Do you think Bengaluru have found the right balance that Albert Roca so often talks about?

We are on our way. You never find the exact point. You never become perfect. But I think we are not far away, and I really like the way our coach wants to juggle the team and give opportunities to everyone. He makes sure everyone is on their toes and this is why we have done really well in tournaments.

What do you attribute your personal form to?

The whole team. Miku and I are scoring so many goals because we get that many opportunities. And the opportunities are created by everyone. They all work hard to make these. So, I think it is a team effort that we create so many chances and that is why Miku and I are getting so many goals.

Do you think Bengaluru have a slight edge over other teams in the playoffs?

I don’t think we have any sort of advantage. We have won the league phase, but because of the format, it is going to be a battle between the top four teams and everybody has an equal opportunity. We just want for our own sake, we do not get any injuries. I just hope we do well and get three points against Kerala. My only concern is injuries. If everyone is fit and ready for selection, I think we are a strong unit.

What do you expect from the match against Kerala?

They are a good side and we will give our best. I think half the stadium will be yellow because of their amazing fans. We have already qualified, but that does not mean anything. We just want to go there and win a football game.