ATK Mohun Bagan interim coach Manuel Casacallana wants his players to step up and take responsibility as they gear up to face NorthEast United FC in match 37 of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) at PJN Stadium, Fatorda on Tuesday.

ATK Mohun Bagan are winless in their last four matches and have managed to pick up only two points. The club has now slipped to seventh position in the league table with eight points in six matches.

ATKMB’s last match against Bengaluru FC was an end to end encounter. They lead on a couple of occasions but BFC managed to come back both the times. The match ended in a 3-3 draw.

Ahead of ATK Mohun Bagan’s clash with NorthEast United FC, coach Cascallana and assistant coach Bastab Roy addressed the media during the official pre-match press conference.

Here are the excerpts from Cascallana’s press conference.

How do you assess NorthEast United FC?

Cascallana: They are a compact team with a good mix of foreigners and Indian players. They attack in good numbers. If we score first they might become unorganised. Our objective is to get the three points.

Since you have worked with Antonio Habas for a while will you follow his strategy in the upcoming matches?

Cascallana: A one hundred percent. He is my teacher so my tactics will be the same as his. I respect his style.

Do you think the current situation would impact the performance of the team?

Cascallana: No, you can look at this in two ways. The coach can’t be blamed. Now, the players need to step up and say it’s my moment and responsibility.

Here are the excerpts from Roy’s press conference. 

What’s your approach going into the next match?

Roy: The league is very unpredictable. We don’t underestimate any of our opponents. It will be a competitive match with both teams going for a win. We play as a team and improve as a team.

How hopeful are you that the team would qualify for the playoffs?

Roy: We are always hopeful. It’s very much possible. The players are motivated and willing to give their best.