Chennaiyin FC coach Bozidar Bandovic demands his players to be more decisive and confident in the attacking play as they face NorthEast United FC in match 68 of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22 at PJN Stadium, Margao, Goa on Saturday.

Chennaiyin FC are seventh in the league table at present. They have only managed one win in their last five matches. However, the club is only a couple of points away from breaking into the top four again.

Chennaiyin FC played a 1-1 draw with Hyderabad FC in their last match. They had four shots on target compared to Hyderabad FC’s 10.

Ahead of Chennaiyin FC’s clash against NorthEast United FC, coach Bandovic and defender Sajid Dhot addressed the media during the official pre-match press conference.

Here are the excerpts from Bandovic’s press conference.

How has the whole covid-19 situation affected your team?

The situation is difficult. They are testing us everyday 2-3 times. There is very little space to go out. It is difficult to concentrate and focus but the atmosphere in the training sessions is really good. I am really proud of my players. Of course there hasn’t been a positive case in our camp.

Are you worried about the lack of chances created?

In some games we have done well attacking wise and in some we didn’t do so well. So, we need to improve. We need to improve in decision making. We need to be more confident. We will try to achieve it tomorrow. At this moment we need more goals.

What’s your assessment of NorthEast United FC?

Of course they have good players. There is Imran (Khan), (VP) Suhair and we will see what happens with Deshorn (Brown), he is a very dangerous player. They use a different type of pressing. We will look at their games. We are ready for the game but I always concentrate on my team.

You haven’t been using Chhangte in the starting lineup for the last few matches, does it have to do with the team formation?

Yes, formation is one of the reasons. But he is training very well. He comes off the bench and helps the team. Nobody comes before the team. I am doing what’s best for the team.

Many people feel CFC should be higher up the table, do you agree?

I feel if we go into the top four, it’s a big success for us. There are a lot of strong teams in the competition. I believe if we have to improve this we need a stronger team.

Here are the excerpts from Sajid’s press conference.

Are the players able to stay focused with the whole covid-19 situation?

Well it’s difficult for everyone. But we are focused on the league and our upcoming matches. We don’t have any excuse.

What are the instructions you have received from the coach?

As a defender, the coach always tells us not to concede any goals. We are focused on keeping clean sheets because in tight matches you can score a goal at any moment and win it.