ATK get their title defence in Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 underway against Kerala Blasters FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Friday. The venue of their final triumph over Kerala last season, ATK can expect a hostile reception from the yellow army in what promises to be a pulsating contest. With a much-changed squad for the new season, it’ll be interesting to see how both teams deal with the change of personnel. One new face in the ATK ranks for Hero ISL 2017-18 is midfielder Conor Thomas. The Englishman, who’ll be getting his first taste of league football in India, spoke to indiansuperleague.com recently in an exclusive interview. Here are the excerpts.

Your first season in the Hero Indian Super League, what are you expecting?

I’m expecting it to be tough and really enjoyable as well. I suppose a few people have played here and set good standards and the league is on the rise. Obviously, I’m coming to the reigning champions so there’ll be a mark on our backs and everyone will want to beat us so it’s going to be tough. But it’s a challenge I am really looking forward to.

A familiar face in the squad from your time with Coventry City in Carl Baker. Has it helped having him in the dressing room?

Yeah definitely! Carl and I played together for three or four years, so we built up quite a relationship and of course off the field as well, having someone you know helps you settle in. We’re both in the same boat and we live 10 minutes from each other back at home, so it’s been good to come out here with him. On the pitch we have a good relationship as well.

How intense was pre-season training?

It’s been really good with the gaffer and coaching staff. It’s been all football. So, the tactical and technical side has been really enjoyable. Maybe one of the best pre-season’s so far, it’s been intense, but we’ve done well in the games so we’re looking forward to starting the season.

As a midfielder, which part of the pitch do you prefer to be in? Is it the final third or the defensive third?

I’m more of a defensive midfielder so depending on what formation our players (use), I normally protect the back four and try to build from the back.

What sort of an influence has Teddy Sheringham had on the side so far?

I think all through the squad everything has changed. Style of play, how he wants us to play without the ball, as well as the intensity. So, we’re not giving too much away, you’ll see in our first game, the style of play. Hopefully we will be really exciting and entertaining to everyone.

Are you excited about playing at the stadium in Kolkata?

Yeah of course! It’s an amazing arena. Hopefully it will be full when we play. We’re obviously away in the first game and are excited to play in front of other fans as well. I’m sure the atmosphere will be amazing (in Kolkata though).