ISL: Borja Fernandez says team raring to go against Mumbai City FC

Kolkata: Chennaiyin FC's thumping 5-1 win against Mumbai City FC would not put Atletico de Kolkata under any extra pressure and their star midfielder Borja Fernandez on Thursday said they would be raring to go for a win when the two teams face in a top of the group ISL clash on November 4.

"We all are professionals. We want to get the three points. We're trying to compete and do our best. This is sport after all," Borja told reporters on the sidelines of their practice at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan here.

The Spanish midfielder who scored a stunning goal against Mumbai in the tournament opener said he had watched Chennai's big win. "They are doing very well in the League. They are a very good side, we are ready to compete with them."

Asked what they have thought about Chennaiyin's marquee player Elano Blumer who's been very impressive with his spot-on freekicks, he said: "The coach will strategise and decide on the plan on that particular day. It would not be just Elano but on the entire team."

The unbeaten ATK are in the middle of a long eight-day gap and the 33-year-old said it would not mean lack of intensity.

"We did very well in the last five games. We're expecting to play with the same level. In times of recovery, the gap would be very good for us."

ATK would miss out on Fikru Teferra (two-match suspension) in the much crucial match against Mumbai FC. "It's always better to have Fikru in the side. He's been playing from the first match so he's quite set with the team.

Obviously, Fikru brings the difference." He however went on to add that Arnal Llibert who played in the Ethiopian's position was giving his best.

"Arnal Llibert who played in Fikru's place did a lot of hard work. You have to give his replacement (Arnal) some time... He did pretty well against Kerala Blasters FC," he said referring to their 1-1 draw in their last outing.

The group leaders ATK have a slender two point lead over second-placed Chennaiyin FC who have played one match less and Saha said both the teams would be raring to go.

"If we beat them our position would become stronger. That's why our next match is very vital."