New Delhi, Aug 27 (IANS) India mid-fielder Mehtab Hossain Monday said the team is getting used to the passing style of play under Dutch coach Wim Koevermans in the ongoing Nehru Cup.
The aggressive mid-fielder said the team was not having any problem adjusting to the new style of play.
“We are working very hard as this playing pattern is new for us. The boys are working assiduously in keeping the ball on the ground. We were used to playing one or two passes among ourselves and then play a long ball to the strikers. But that is a thing of the past,” Mehtab said after a practice session at the Jaypee Greens in Greater Noida near here.
Asked if Koevermans’ philosophy was helping Indian players, Mehtab said: “The Coach has always maintained that. We are professional players and have to play in any given system or formation. It is our responsibility to meet his demands by giving our best on the field.”
Mehtab said the team has put behind the win against Syria and Maldives.
“Our mantra is to forget the past and not take any opponent lightly. The two victories are a thing of the past now and we are concentrating on the Nepal match. Our coach insists to take one match at a time and not bask in the glory of previous laurels,” he said.
“Nepal are very quick. They play short passes and build up fast. I watched them play against Maldives. Though they lost, they fought really well. It was a close match,” he said.
Mehtab had words of praise for the youngsters in the team.
“I don’t need to certify them as say they are a talented bunch. They indeed are. From Francis to Lenny to Alwyn to Raju to Jewel to the others – they have come a long path. We shouldn’t forget they are here as they deserve it. It’s an encouraging sign – the pipeline is full and delivering,” he added.
