Kerala Blasters have been impressive in the ISL for the past few seasons, having finished runners-up twice as well. Though the Blasters might have just played 4 matches in ISL 2017, they have been below par, struggling in eighth place. They can move up the table by picking their maiden win of the season as they prepare to face NorthEast United FC at JLN Stadium in Kochi on Friday.
Things are not looking good for the home team with injuries to key player. Former Manchester United man, Dimitar Berbatov will only be available late December. However, Wes Brown and Iain Hume could feature against NorthEast as they will be in the squad for the Friday game.
Blasters coach Rene Meulensteen is aware of the poor results in the last few matches, but does not want his players to think about it and wants three points against NorthEast United.
"It only affects if you start dwelling that. Players know when they have made the mistake. You need to accept it and move on. The players are very keen to get their first win. Apart from Berbatov, Iain Hume has resumed training this week and came through well. Wes (Brown) is improving. We have to make a call on that," Goal quoted the Blasters coach as saying.
If Blasters have not been performing well, the Highlanders are no different. They have just pick one win in their four matches, but are above Blasters in the ISL 2017 table. NorthEast United are also looking to beat Kerala Blasters for the first time in Kochi.
Their ambition of, at least, reaching the Playoffs for the first time, is off the track and it is such matches against teams like Blasters, who are looking for their first win, which the Highlanders need to win.
NorthEast United coach Joao De Deus will need all his players to stand up and be counted against Blasters.
Where to watch live
Kerala Blasters vs NorthEast United is scheduled for 8 pm IST.
India - Star Sports 2/HD, Star Sports Hindi 1/HD, Star Sports 3, Star Gold, Star UTSAV, Jalsha Movies, Suvarna Plus.
Live streaming: Hotstar
Live score: Twitter
