Kerala Blasters haven’t had the best of starts this season in the Indian Super League (ISL) as they could only muster two points from as many games on home soil. Last season’s finalists have struggled in front of goal as their strikers have been devoid of any service whatsoever.
However, Jhingan expressed confidence in his team’s ability and pointed at history books to look at their record.
“In the first season, we didn’t have a point till the third game. Last season we only got our first point in the fourth match. We have got two clean-sheets and two points. It's not the worst start. In the last game, the passes we made are almost double the number. The defence is good.
“I am not worried at all. We wanted three points. But we will get it sorted,” said Jhingan.
The Chandigarh-born defender was also asked about the confusion over his retention by Blasters who were close to penning a deal with Mehtab Hossain instead before a last minute u-turn.
Next Match
“I had a word with Mr Prasad (co-owner of Blasters) and there was a lot of news about Mehtab Hossain. I had my terms with Varun Tripuraneni (Blasters’ CEO) settled. I had no issues. I am glad they retained me,” explained Jhingan.
The 24-year-old is pleased to have the likes of Dimitar Berbatov and Wes Brown in the dressing room as the duo bring immense experience with them.
“I have been following Manchester United as a kid and I was really happy when they joined Blasters. The quality they bring is exceptional. I have been really lucky since I became a professional footballer. I try to learn as much as I can. When hard times come, we need leaders like Wes Brown,” he mentioned.
ISL
Kerala next come up against Mumbai City FC and Jhingan pointed that Amrinder Singh is one of their biggest assets. He also believes that the league is still in its early stages and that no team, including Bengaluru FC, is running way with the lead.
“Mumbai have conceded goals. Goalkeeper Amrinder is also a plus for them.
“It's too early to decide (on whether Bengaluru are running away with a lead). The league is too open,” he opined.
Jhingan has played 50 matches for Blasters and the India international expressed his happiness on being given a chance to skipper the team.
“Captaining is an honour for me. It is a great feeling. Also to be appointed by Rene (Meulensteen), it’s more of a pride for me.
“It’s a great achievement (to complete 50 games). It's a good feeling to be a part of the team. I just want to contribute as much as I can.”
