[1]Close on the heels of the Lionel Messi-led Argentine side’s match in Kolkata, English Premier League club Blackburn Rovers will make a maiden appearance in their owner Venkys‘ backyard as they take on local side Pune FC in an exhibition match here on Friday.
The Puneites are in for a treat as the likes of New Zealand and Blackburn skipper Ryan Nelsen, former England international David Dunn, former Spanish international Michael Salgado and Nigerian striker Ayegbeni Yakubu will showcase their skills against Izumi Arata and other Pune FC stars at the Shiv Chatrapati Stadium at Balewadi on Friday.
The Rovers might be languishing one place off the bottom of the English Premier League after losing five of their opening seven matches, but the game will nevertheless be important for both the teams.
The visitors are going through a torrid time of late as ruffled fans’ call for removal of chief coach Steve Kean have gained momentum.
A win here may not silence their vexed supporters, but anything less than it will only make things worse for Kean.
Meanwhile, for Pune FC, the match is a great opportunity to rub their shoulders against some known names in English football. While a victory would surely surprise the team themselves, a spirited performance against a technically-superior side will give the hosts great confidence ahead of the new I-League season later this month.
Veteran India player and Pune FC midfielder Shanmugam Venkatesh will lead the team in the absence of regular skipper and goalkeeper Subrata Paul, who along with striker Mandjou Keita, is out due to injury.
“We are ready for history and to unfold a good game for our fans, who will be turning out in numbers for the game. Our fans know us and on their behalf we need to keep our reputation by playing well which will be our mission in the game,” Venkatesh said.
“The result will not matter. Everybody is aware of Blackburn’s credentials. For Pune FC, the fans and support that will matter,” he added.
Pune FC coach Derrick Pereira echoed Venkatesh’s views. “It is a huge game no doubt but above all, it presents a great opportunity for us to learn. I have been telling all that they have to just enjoy the game and put up a good show for our fans.
“Yes, the spirit of the team is good and the players are looking forward to the game tomorrow,” he added.
On Subrata and Keita’s absence, he said, “As a coach you will always want to have the entire squad at your disposal. Subrata and Keita are key players for us, but this provides an opportunity for the younger players to step up.”
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[1] http://archive.asianage.com/07blackjpgcropdisplayjpg-097