With 539 good passes to his name – a 74% accuracy in 15 appearances - he was one of the key contributors to Chennaiyin FC’s journey to the Hero Indian Super League 2014 semi-finals. The Chennai side kicks off their 2015 campaign against Atlético de Kolkata tomorrow and midfielder Harmanjot Khabra is thrilled about marching into the battle zone.In an exclusive conversation with indiansuperleague.com, Khabra opened up quite a bit. Here are some excerpts:What are your expectations from Hero ISL Season 2015?I have more responsibilities now because Chennaiyin FC retained me for this season. I have to perform the way I did last season. I would like to do more from my side. I aim to do my best.What have been your most memorable moments from Season 2014?We lost in the second leg of the semi-finals, but the way we played the second leg match here against Kerala Blasters; it was one of the best matches of Indian as well as world football history. That game was the most memorable for me.Has anything changed in your life after the first season of the Hero ISL?I can feel a lot of changes in my life. Before the last season, my identity was limited to Kolkata football fans but now wherever I go, people recognize me. The Hero ISL has completely changed the life of Indian footballers.With a formidable last season, expectations are too high this season. Do you feel the pressure?I did not set any such targets last year. I always try to do my best, but the thing is I play from a number of positions. My role in the team depends on the situation and the coach’s strategy. My first priority is defence, everything else is secondary. I don’t want to pressurize myself; want to stay away from the numbers game. Last year, I had three assists and 43 tackles but let’s see, it’s a team game and I want to help my team. I don’t want to set big targets now and be disappointed later. I will move forward with small targets for myself.How were the Italy pre-season training sessions?It was very important for us because we have only 10 players from the previous season and other players are new. It’s very important for foreigners and Indians that they gel together. Indian guys got some experience, training with good supporting staff. Last year, we didn’t have such facilities, yet we performed very well. This year, the team is in very good shape and we have more talent in squad.The ISL 2015 opener pits your team against 2014 title winners Atletico de Kolkata – what’s on your mind?It’s a very important match for each and every player because the first match is always crucial in any tournament. It is how you’re going to move further in the tournament and the first victory is always important for boosting the confidence. It’s also important because we are playing against the defending champions. Their defence is very good. Last year, we drew against them on both the occasions. I think we will definitely draw some positives from this game.
