Pune FC Under-19 coach Naushad Moosa is all set for the Under-19 I-League. Aware that the two- squad has a huge reputation - two time champions – at stake, the ex-India defender remains positive and realistic.
Having joined the Peninsula Pune Football Club Academy last year, Moosa has worked himself into keeping in line with the trend at the club over the years.
On the eve of the Pune FC U-19s first match, Moosa spoke to punefc.com on a host of topics on the team.
Excerpts-
Can you express your feelings ahead of your first big assignment with the two-time champions?
NM: The assignment is indeed challenging. Somewhere at the back of my mind, pressure will always remain owing to the champion status. There are high expectations from both players and me. I, however, will ensure that I don't exercise pressure on players, allow them play their natural game but remain as competitive as ever and enjoy the game. To begin with I would want to take each match one at a time.
How has the preparation been in the five months that you have been together?
NM: The team has shaped up well in all attributes needed during build-up, physically, mentally and tactically. The Durand Cup 2013 turned out to be an eye-opener for all to gear up. That’s because; it was the first tournament for all as a team who had just been selected for a big-stage tournament. However, the experience gained helped build confidence and since then all have remained positive and on the track to achieve our goal.
The run-up has been impressive: unbeaten in PDFA League, a Championship Cup…
NM: The players have worked very hard to achieve results. But, perhaps, the biggest morale booster was beating the Senior Reserve team, which increased self-belief and confidence to take on any opponent.
Thoughts on the new home-and-away format…
NM: Personally, I feel the format should favour us. Playing home is advantageous; the pleasant weather and uniform pitch help, rather than having all matches at Mumbai in humid, unfavourable ground conditions and odd timings.
The team is a mix of first-timers and a hand full from last year. How do you strike a balance?
NM: With just a clutch of 16 players in the Under-19 squad this year, we had to register few Under-17 players. Together they have been training for a month of which two Under-17 players are regulars in the starting XI. Moreso, the experience of Avilash Paul in goal, Henry Monsang and Shubashish Bose in defence is huge for the team. The trio are motivating to the rest in the squad. Overall the team is well balanced and I am hoping for a positive result.