Sheikh Russell Krira Chakra have already created history this season and the Blue outfit will be looking to make it four out of four when they
begin their quest for the cash-rich Super Cup, the season’s last title.
Russell are on the threshold of a historic quadruple after claiming the Federation Cup, Independence Cup and Bangladesh Premier League this season. Triumph in the Super Cup, set to begin on June 14, will ensure unprecedented success as it would land them their fourth trophy this season.
‘We yearn to end the season by winning the Super Cup and make history in the country’s football,’ said Biplob Bhattacharjee, Russell’s captain-cum-goalkeeper at a press briefing at the Bangladesh Football Federation House on Sunday.
The local footballers will have to rise to the occasion as the foreign footballers will not be taking part in the competition.
‘It is true that our foreign players contributed greatly to our success in the tournaments and the league. Though it is unlikely that the void left by their absence will be filled even then I think that we have quality players to replace them,’ said Maruful Haque, head coach of Russell.
‘The Super Cup will not be a source of pressure for us. We like to thrive under pressure and we proved ourselves in the past.’
‘In the absence of foreign players, anyone can win on any given day. We previously expressed our desire of trying to win every competition we take part in, that is still the target,’ said Maruful.
The treble-winning coach has been conducting intense training sessions during the last two weeks but his side are likely to be depleted by injuries as they prepare to play three group matches inside five days.
Maruful might miss the services of Mamunul Islam, Zahid Hossain, Zahid Hasan Emily and Mithun Chowdhury ahead of their opening match of Group A against Feni Soccer Club.
Abahani Limited and Muktijoddha Sangsad KC are the other teams of the group.
Meanwhile, Soccer Club are also carrying out their preparations before their opening game against Russell.
‘We have brought in 15 new players in our 30-member squad and you [media] will see the reflection in the group stage matches,’ said Shakhawat Hossain Shahin, joint secretary of Soccer Club.
Soccer Club ensured their participation in the Super Cup by the skin of their teeth after finishing seventh and narrowly escaped relegation this season.
The top eight teams of the Bangladesh Premier League will take part in the upcoming Super Cup.
-With New Age input
