Kerala Blasters head coach Ivan Vukomanovic highlights the roles of key players ahead of a new ISL season

The Indian Super League is all set to start and ATK Mohun Bagan and Kerala Blasters will once again clash swords against each other in the curtain-raiser. The Basters after last season’s disappointment have made wholesale changes mainly to their foreign contingent and have also roped in a new head coach in Ivan Vukomanovic. It will be a big task for the Serbian to shine in his first season in India but he will look to start on a positive note and win the clash against last season’s finalists ATK Mohun Bagan.

Ahead of the opening fixture Vukomanovic addressed the media and spoke at length on several topics ranging from preparations, key players and even a little about the opponents.

A strong reason for last season’s disappointment was injuries to key players. Therefore fitness and a long pre season was key to Kerala Blasters’ plan and according to the Serbian tactician the team is looking in good shape heading into the new season.

“After arriving at Goa, we played a few friendly games that were at least 90 minutes long, and during those matches, we were dominant for good lengths of time. Some of those games were 120 minutes long – so we’re happy on the fitness and stamina aspect as well.”

“In summation, we are satisfied and we hope to become better as the league progresses,” he added.

Coming to key players Vukomanovic pointed out the important roles that players like Sahal Abdul Samad, Rahul KP, Adrian Luna and Jeakson Singh will be given. he further teased that how Sahal will be slotted in a different formation and it will be a challenge for the Indian midfielder in his new role.

“Sahal be playing in different formations this season. All players will have their roles, in each of those formations. Sahal is one of the players who has the potential to become an important part of both Kerala Blasters and the Indian football team. We are happy with his improvement, and he is motivated to work hard,” he added.

He also shared how Luna has similarities with Sahal and can play in various positions. Lastly, he pointed out the importance of Rahul KP and Jeakson Singh. Vukomanovic feels that the Indian dup will be crucial to Kerala Blasters’ success this season.