Kochi: Dutchman Eelco Schattorie is just getting used to Kerala and Kerala Blasters. The new head coach is moulding the team and developing tactics for the new season.

Team management and fans hope the former NorthEast United coach will infuse much-needed energy into Blasters this season. The team will leave for the UAE for a pre-season session on Tuesday.

Schattorie was in a holiday mood at the pool at the Marriott Hotel in Kochi when Manorama caught up with him.

From NorthEast to Blasters

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My style of football is the same everywhere – attacking football. All team I have coached have played attacking game. I hope to do the same here as well. It depends on the players’ potential too. Youngsters sometimes shine in a couple of matches and then fade out.

Youngsters’ performance

Their consistency depends on themselves and the coaching staff. They are shown videos and given technical help. We use the experience of international players too, especially that of (Nigerian forward) Bartholomew Ogbeche. Players get to learn more from seniors than coaches often. Bartholomew loves to communicate with young players and help with their game.

I have worked with many teams. It is not easy to get someone like him whose presence can make an impact.

Trump card
Eelco Schattorie rates Nigerien forward Bartholomew Ogbeche highly. File photo: AFP
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Young Indian players

It’s still early days. Four days is a small window. We have to talk, observe and train them to know their potential and character. Pre-seasons are best for this analysis that involves using old videos.

International superstars

My countryman (Gianni) Zuiverloon is a great centre-back who has played in the Premier League. Bartholomew is the striker. They will be the two pillars of the team. There are two Spanish midfielders – Mario (Arques) and (Sergio) Cidoncha. We are assessing these two youngsters.

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Blasters fans

My favourite clubs are (FC) Barcelona and Ajax (Amsterdam). I stand with them in victory and defeat. Fans should do the same with Blasters - stay strong with the team no matter what. It’s kind of a family bond, isn’t it?

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