Kolkata: Atletico de Kolkata have included diminutive Bangladeshi midfielder Mohamed Mamunul Islam who is likely to replace suspended Ofentse Nato for their crucial away ISL fixture in Pune on November 29.
The 25-year-old Bangladeshi captain and popular name back home is yet to play a match this season as ATK, who are going through a rough patch prior to the knock-out phase, have also picked French defender Sylvain Monsoreau to their Pune-bound 22-member squad.
It will also be a revenge match for ATK who had lost to FC Pune City 1-3 at home to snap their six-match unbeaten run as they slipped to number two with just one win from the last six outings.
“Everybody is aware that we lost to Pune in the last game. We know they’re a strong side but we have to win to make the semifinal. We had a break. Every game is different. We are ready,” Jose Miguel Gonzalez Rey told reporters.
On Nato’s absence, the ATK central defender said: “He’s a very important player and been part of the side in most of the games. But it will be an opportunity for other players.”
It was Pune dangerman Dudu Omagbemi who struck a beautiful header to give the side the lead as their star player David Trezeguet’s absence was not missed.
But come Saturday, both the French World Cup winner and Dudu will look to go for the kill.
Josemi said they’re focusing on their strengths only. “To me the most important factor is my team. We have to play well to win.”
Ruing Dudu’s goal, defender N Mohan Raj said: “It was a measured cross coupled with a fine heading. We should give them the credit. After all we lost because of that goal. Hope we don’t repeat the same mistake next time.”
PTI