The Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22 season for SC East Bengal might be different than what the fans expected, but there are still key learnings and improvements to attend going forward in the league.

After going through a managerial as well as a change in captaincy, the Kolkata-based side have struck together well as a unit and have brought out their best efforts on the field. Whilst going through these transitions, SC East Bengal found a guardian in between the posts in Sankar Roy.

Roy was instrumental with Mohun Bagan AC in the 2019-20 I-League as his seven clean sheets in 14 matches helped them lift the coveted trophy. Having made his debut with SC East Bengal in the ISL 2020-21 campaign, the custodian got limited gametime and played for just 61 minutes. Cut to this season, the 26-year-old was brought to action in three outings where the custodian made six saves and conceded four goals.

Ahead of their clash against Mumbai City FC, Roy spoke to the official media team of SC East Bengal in an exclusive interview on how the side is motivated to do well for the fans, goalkeeper Arindam Bhattacharja’s constant support, and much more.

“The seniors in the team motivate us a lot. We have nothing to lose. We want to make the fans happy,” he added.

“Mumbai City FC are a good side. They are fighting for the semi-finals. I will try and keep a clean sheet,” the custodian commented on the upcoming game against them.

Being the youngest goalkeeper in the squad, Roy praised Bhattacharja and stated his ambitions to keep learning from him.

“Ari da (Arindam Bhattacharja) guides me like a younger brother during practice sessions. I have learnt a lot from him. I have also learnt a lot from Bobby Mimms (former SCEB goalkeeping coach) during my first season,” Roy commented.

Being the third-choice goalkeeper, Roy hasn’t had much gametime between the sticks but is still optimistic about giving his best each time.

“I always try to give my best whenever I get an opportunity. I will keep doing that,” he said.

With fans all over India waiting to rejoice in front of their favourite teams inside the stadium, Roy advised them to stay safe and maintain all the COVID-19 protocols in light of the pandemic.