Kerala Blasters' fit-again playmaker won't be friends with Rahul for 90 minutes

Midfielder Vibin Mohanan missed the last four matches of Kerala Blasters in the ISL with an injury. He has regained fitness and is expected to return to the starting XI against visiting Odisha FC on Monday.

But in the short period that he was away, the Blasters underwent a series of drastic changes; first, they sacked head coach Mikael Stahre, then parted ways with a set of players, including winger Rahul K P, who was close to Vibin.

"Personally, it (Rahul leaving) made me sad," Vibin said on Saturday. "Since I joined, he constantly guided and motivated me. But in professional football, nothing is certain. Maybe I won't be here next season or a season after that."

Rahul is expected to line up against the Blasters for the first time since his exit, but Vibin does not want to give his friend any joy on the pitch. The 21-year-old midfielder is determined to make a memorable return to the side. "I'm excited to be back. I will give my 100 per cent," Vibin said. About his reunion with Rahul, Vibin added: "On the ground, we will both be competitive, but once the match ends, we will be friends again."