Jamshedpur FC

Jamshedpur, September 16: Interim head coach Steven Dias believes the team still has plenty of room to improve as they prepare for the upcoming Super Cup.

 “We reached the quarterfinal in the Durand Cup but I think we didn’t do well even though we got that far. What matters now is that we know our strengths and weaknesses, and we’re working hard on both. Preparation is going well, and everyone is very excited about the Super Cup,” he said.

The former India international stressed the importance of balance in the squad. “I like to see experienced players working with talented youngsters. Right now, we have a very balanced team, and that gives us confidence going into this tournament,” he added.

On his footballing philosophy, Dias made his intentions clear. “We are preparing for the Super Cup and we are going all out for it. I always like attacking football with compact defending. The players are working hard, and I know we will give our best.”

Having known and worked with Khalid Jamil for years, Dias acknowledged his predecessor’s influence. “I learnt a lot from coach Khalid and his dedication to football. He’s very experienced, and I’ve been fortunate to know him since our days at Mahindra United, then playing under him at Mumbai FC, and later working with him at JFC. Our playing styles are a bit different, but that’s the beauty of football. The players are adapting and focused.”

Dias also reserved special praise for Jamshedpur’s supporters, who he believes are central to the club’s rise. “Fans are always with us, not just during the Durand Cup. If you look at our success last season in the ISL, it was because of the players and the fans’ support. Without fans there’s no football. I think we have the best home record so far and all credit goes to JFC fans. My message is simple. Keep supporting us, you guys motivate us to perform, and we’ll definitely give you reasons to smile and cheer for us.”