NorthEast United FC host Chennaiyin FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Tuesday for the final league phase match of the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2019-20. Already out of contention for the top four, the fixture will be the Highlanders’ last involvement in the Hero ISL 2019-20 season.

At the pre-match press conference, NorthEast’s interim head coach Khalid Jamil noted that his players will be playing for pride and a win. “This is our last match of the season and we need the fans’ support for it. Everyone will try to give their best to try and end the season on a winning note,” he said.

“Going back home happily with a win after the last match of the season will be the motivation for us,” he later added.

Speaking about Tuesday’s opponents, Jamil opined, “Chennaiyin didn’t start well but picked up momentum in the latter stages. They are a good team with a good balance of Indian and foreign players.”

Asked for his take on the performance of young Indian players in this season of the Hero ISL, he stated, “It’s good that the youngsters are playing more. Gaining experience is important for any player. Indian players have been doing well this season. A lot of good young talents have come to the fore, both from our team and other sides. It’s a good thing for Indian football.”

Ninthoi, who accompanied Jamil to the briefing, summed up the season from his perspective and said, “This is my first Hero ISL season. Playing with the seniors and foreign players have been really illuminating. I learnt a lot. Personally, am trying my best to achieve my goals. I want to be my best.”

Read the Match Preview here.