AFC Cup | Good results in AFC Cup could revive our season, believes John Gregory
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Chennaiyin City FC manager John Gregory has been of the opinion that good results in the AFC Cup could revive their otherwise horrendous Indian Super League season. CFC got a huge injury boost in the form of Dhanpal Ganesh, who returned to the squad after missing the entire league season.
The defending champions recorded their worst finish of any season this time, as they ended rock bottom of the table with just two wins from 18 matches. With Gregory already confirming that he wouldn’t be with the club next season, the Englishman would be willing to end his stint on a high.
CFC would be playing away from home against Colombo FC as they eye a place in the playoffs and getting a clean slate to start again, Gregory was optimistic about his team’s chances.
"The boys are in good spirits ahead of what is a very big game for us. It is a historic match for the club. We are hopeful of securing a victory that puts us in a commanding position for the second leg. We are aware of the quality Colombo FC possess and expect a good fight from them," said Gregory in Colombo on Tuesday, reported TOI.
"We are aware that if we have two good results against Colombo, it revives our season and gives us an opportunity to improve. In a way, it is a restart to our season," the Englishman added.
While the likes of Mailson Alves, Eli Sabia, and others would be a strong addition for any side, they were severely out of form this season before new import Christopher Herd brought some stability. CFC would be playing the return leg in Ahmedabad on March 13 and a solid defensive display away from home could make things easier for them in the second leg.
"Herd has come into the side and given us some defensive strength that was lacking earlier. He has become better and better since joining us. We are very pleased with him," Gregory observed.
Chennaiyin FC
