Habas, Molina have same style of play: Borja

Kolkata, Oct 15 (IANS) Atletico de Kolkata (ATK) defensive midfielder Borja Fernandez likened former coach Antonio Habas to incumbent Jose Molina, saying both Spaniards have the same style of play.

Speaking ahead of the city-based franchise's first of the three home matches against FC Goa on Sunday, the former Real Madrid player who has spent three seasons with ATK said, "Both coaches have things in common. There are also some different things. But the style of play is the same as they are both Spanish.

"We have done two great seasons with Antonio (Habas) and now look forward to having one with our new coach."

Habas led ATK to one title and a semi-final finish in the previous two seasons before switching allegiance to FC Pune City for this term.

On Sunday's match against a Goa side who have looked off-colour and are yet to win a match from their three outings, coach Molina said: "I always have confidence in my team. Not too much extra confidence though. It will not be an easy match. They have to fight and win as they need a win big time. It's an important match to us. We have to win as well."

ATK have drawn two and won one in three matches so far.

The inaugural champions have injury concerns in Helder Postiga who is still recovering from his rib injury, and centre-back Tiri who is also sidelined due to a niggle.

Portugal defender Henrique Sereno is likely to take his place in the starting line-up, Molina said. Sereno has been pencilled in after Pablo Gallardo was ruled out of the season due to injury.

"He (Sereno) is with us for one week. I hope if Tiri can't play tomorrow. We can use him."

Botswana midfielder Ofentse Nato, who has been a vital cog in ATK's wheel from the start, has been nursing an injury since pre-season. Asked about his status, Molina said, "He is improving. He is better if not at his best. I hope he can help us in the next game if not tomorrow."

On a different note, Borja said it's good that Indian football is trying to emulate more developed footballing nations in terms of bringing in professionalism in the game through the ISL.

"There has been a big improvement in terms of the Indian players. It's a good idea for India to follow other countries in terms of professionalism."

--IANS

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