“Jamshedpur are a physically strong side. They have experienced Indian players,” says Hyderabad Head Coach Thangboi Singto

After a cruel run of away games, HFC are finally back home and in action at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium in Gachibowli. They welcome Jamshedpur FC this Thursday, December 21.

Starting the game at the wrong end of the table, Jamshedpur’s only win of the season so far came with Rei Tachikawa’s free-kick at the Furnace, while the Nawabs stay winless and bottom, ten games into the season.

The Red Miners are fresh from a narrow loss in Bengaluru and have been tough to beat this season. Laldinpuia and Jeremy Manzorro have proven to be match-winners on their day.

Elsinho, Steve Ambri, Jitendra Singh, Alen Stevanovic and Daniel Chima Chukwu are players to look out for, in this tie.

But it is important for Hyderabad to focus on giving their best against Jamshedpur, says Hyderabad Head Coach Thangboi Singto.

“Jamshedpur are a physically strong side. They have experienced Indian players in crucial positions and of course, with the foreigners, they are a very strong team,” he said.

“But at the moment for us, when we take the ground tomorrow, we have to concentrate on ourselves and how we can be at our best,” he added.

Hyderabad have struggled in front of goal this season. Joe Knowles, Mohammad Yasir, Jonathan Moya, Petteri Pennanen and Joao Victor have not made the most of the majority of chances created in games.

Nim Dorjee Tamang and Nikhil Poojary have been impeccable for most of the season. They have been ably supported by Gurmeet Singh and Chinglensana Konsham at the back.

Sahil Tavora, Mark Zothanpuia, Ramhlunchhunga and the rest will also want to put in a strong performance to turn around in what has been a tough time for the Yellow and Black.

However, playing in front of their faithful, after almost two long months could help in the up-turn of form says Coach Thangboi Singto.

“We are really happy to be finally back home, for the players, for the fans and everyone involved,” said Coach Thangboi.

“Our team has a great set of fans who support and push the players. We know we play for the city, for the fans and we will all, give it our all,” he added.