Thaindian News

Kolkata, Jan 30 (IANS) East Bengal have a golden opportunity to get level on points with Dempo at the top of the I-League football when they play Prayag United in the 18th round encounter at the Salt Late Stadium here Tuesday.

East Bengal will be without the services of Sushant Matthew, who is out due to suspension, while Robin Singh, Robert Lalthalma, Naoba Singh and Nirmal Chettri are still nursing injuries.

East Bengal coach Trevor Morgan said: “Prayag United are a quality side and this could be seen from their position in the league as well as their victory against Mohun Bagan last week.”

Asked about the consistency of his team, Morgan said: “If you look at the table almost every team can spring a surprise. So it’s not about inconsistency but a very competitive league. Pune FC who are on a good run and have not lost a match since last few rounds. The other day HAL scored a two goal victory over Chirag Kerala and Sporting Clube have put together a good string of results.”

Prayag United will be heavily dependent on local players for this match as most of their foreigners look doubtful. Veteran Yusif Yakubu is yet to return while Brazilian striker Joshimar da Silva Martins, who is nursing an ankle injury, looks doubtful. Bello Razaq and Kayne Vincent are also unlikely to start as they did not practice in the last training session.

East Bengal have 34 points from 17 matches while Prayag United are not far behind with 29.