New Mohammedan Sporting Club coach Jose Hevia keen to live up to expectations

KOLKATA:

Mohammedan Sporting Club

have appointed Spaniard

Jose Hevia

as the head coach to spearhead their

I-League campaign

.


The

Uefa pro license coach

is well versed in the club’s history, its fan base and is ready for the challenge.

"I can imagine the expectations to make this a great season. For me, it is a great challenge as I always look for success. But it requires a great effort and hard work and I'm focused on working with the team and giving my 100 per cent to achieve the highest level of excellence," Hevia told TOI.

The Spaniard, who has worked with Shillong Lajong FC and

Punjab FC

, had followed the I-League qualifiers from his hometown.

"I followed the second division league prior to the pandemic because there were few players from Lajong competing on loan in other teams. Once the final round started, I followed it from Spain and was surprised with the fantastic performance of MSC," he added.

With the I-League scheduled to start in January next year, Hevia pointed out that pre-season ahead of the tournament is vital.

"During this time the players will get to know me, my style of play and also I will be able to share with them all the information and concepts about defending and attacking. Fitness is also a vital part as this period will help develop a balanced team for the entire season."

The 48-year-old, who was also part of ISL side FC Pune City, will lead the only club from the state in the league after Mohun Bagan and East Bengal entered the ISL this season.

"I can't imagine a football match without intensity, high press, fight in each action and also high movement of the ball and quick transitions. Also the team has to be compact throughout the match, working together while defending and attacking," he said.

Speaking on the combination of Indian and foreign players in his team, Hevia said, "To me nationality doesn't matter. The preparation and commitment of the players will matter. I know they will give their 100 per cent for this project. But it's important for me to know the quality of Indian players the team has and what are the targets to be set.

"But above all, foreign players always improve the quality of the squad, they strengthen the squad according to the need. So we will look for the players who will be best for the club," the coach signed-off.