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Game 5 of the ISL will see FC Pune City begin their campaign with a home encounter against Delhi Dynamos. After a disappointing previous season, the Stallions are looking to finally make their mark in the league.
With a new coach in place and a tremendously talented squad at his disposal, this might be the season where FC Pune City announce themselves on the ISL stage. Ahead of tomorrow's matchup, manager Ranko Popovic looked confident in his pre-match press conference.
"The boys are ready. We have had a long preparation in training and in the practice games with the players now itching to get on the field. But this being the first game of the season, the players might have a nervy start," said Popovic.
Popovic also revealed that he does not believe in home or away advantage when asked about the benefits of starting the season at home. The Serbian was of the view that in order to make the fans happy, his team would have to get three points - both home and away. He said, "Our ideology won't change because of the stadium. It is good that we enjoy a good support at home but fighting for the badge and the club will be our top priority, irrespective of the stadium."
The Stallions boss said that a few of his players are carrying knocks ahead of the season opener and explained that the final call on the injured players' involvement would be taken tomorrow.
The manager was also asked about the rule of fielding six Indian players in the starting lineup instead of the AFC's rule of seven locals plus four foreigners. Popovic replied, "For me, it depends foremost on the quality of the players. The number may differ but if the quality is there, there is no need for any ruling of this sort."
