Kolkata, Jan 18 (IANS) Prayag United SC take on Chirag Kerala in an I-League football clash at the Salt Lake Thursday. Prayag, who have been the surprise package so far, are on 22 points from 14 matches while Chirag United Kerala sit precariously close to relegation zone with 11 points from 14 matches.

In a way, it’s a home coming for Chirag who were the sponsors of the rival team for a number of years before deciding to shift to Kerala.

Sanjoy Sen, Prayag United’s coach, said: “It might not be a derby match but it is a matter of prestige for the club.”

So much so that even Prayag United officials visited the team’s practice session in an effort to boost the morale ahead of the big clash.

For Prayag United, Lalkamal Bhowmick is out due to an injury. He will be missing about four weeks of action due to a shoulder dislocation and will be replaced by Jayanta Sen.

“We have a ready replacement for him and have played many crucial matches without Lalkamal. We have a backup plan ready,” the Prayag coach commented.

“It’s not right to underestimate any opposition. We beat Dempo in the first phase but had to settle for draws against lower-ranked teams.”

Chirag United Kerala had a short afternoon practice session. Coach Fakir Ali seemed confident ahead of the clash and hoped to take full points from this match. Chirag have come to Kolkata with a full strength team and will hope for a win that can give them a boost in avoiding relegation.