ATK Mohun Bagan head coach Juan Ferrando demands his players to be confident in attacking play and make risky passes as they prepare to face SC East Bengal in match 75 of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22 at PJN Stadium, Margao, Goa, on Saturday.

ATK Mohun Bagan are eighth in the league table with 16 points in 10 matches. They are two to three games behind other teams but are only a couple of points away from the top four.

The Mariners played a goalless draw against Odisha FC in their last match. They had 13 shots at goal out of which six of them were on target. But they failed to get on the scoresheet.

Ahead of ATK Mohun Bagan’s clash against arch-rivals SC East Bengal, coach Ferrando addressed the media during the official pre-match press conference.

Here are the excerpts from the press conference:

The Kolkata derby is one of the biggest matches in India, how do you feel being a part of it?

Of course I am happy. It’s a pleasure to be part of this team and this game. But we understand that our target is to get the three points, improve in our style and stay focused throughout the game. Of course there’s an emotional side to the game but we have to keep our focus.

ATK Mohun Bagan failed to win their last two games, do you think the team is improving?

From my point of view, we improved in possessional attack. Our problem is in transitions. First, It’s necessary to be confident in attacking play and make risky passes. And then it’s about good transitional play. I am so happy because it's a very difficult moment for us. And then in the last three weeks there has been a change in methodology. It’s not easy but the players are working hard and trying their best.

What are your thoughts on SC East Bengal?

They have brought in some new players and a new coach. I have watched their last 3-4 games. The players are moving more freely. They are more compact and pushing the opposition. The supporters of SCEB are happy for the last few games.

What do you think are the strengths of SC East Bengal?

Of course I have watched their games and discussed it with the squad. I put 100% of the focus on my team. I am happy because the manager, doctors and the staff are trying to do well in difficult circumstances.