Impossible to make big changes suddenly, says new RoundGlass Punjab FC coach Ed Engelkes
CHANDIGARH: Putting behind their topsy-turvy run, the RoundGlass Punjab FC under new coach Ed Engelkes has registered a stunning comeback with a hat-trick of victories, including a superb 3-1 win over domestic giants Mohammedan Sporting Club, to vault to the top three in the I-League standings. The 58-year-old took charge of the beleaguered club, struggling for form, after the first six matches of the 2021-22 season, and has led the boys to handsome wins over Sudeva Delhi FC, Indian Arrows besides the iconic Mohammedan SC.
In a detailed interview with the TOI, the Dutchman points out the reasons behind the transformation of the side, even as he believes there can't be overnight miracles but feels that the results are a reflection of the structured approach he has infused into the team.
This is your first stint in Indian football. How has the experience been so far?
The experience was a bit of a roller-coaster when I first arrived at the Academy, due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, and RoundGlass made me feel right at home. So far, it's been wonderful working in India. I've felt welcome right from the beginning and have been supported well by my support staff, players, and other colleagues too.
You have been part of many Dutch clubs, could you list a few similarities and differences with Indian clubs?
From what I have seen so far, I can say that the I-League is highly competitive. The teams are well-matched and everyone across the tournament is working hard and putting in their best efforts.
In my opinion, it is difficult to compare European and Indian football. In Holland, the sport is more organized, and we start preparing players right from the age of six, who train regularly and play competitions every week. The infrastructure, travel distances, and climate are also important factors to consider.
In India, the sport is still in a growth phase. It is progressing well with the help of foreign coaches and experts, developing senior and youth football along with coach and referee education. The potential is immense, and we must keep building on the good work being done.
How difficult is it to take charge of a club in the middle of a season?
We understand that it is not the most ideal situation as every coach likes to have a proper pre-season to develop a style of play and get to know the players. However, we realize that we need to be fast and use every moment of the day. It is important for everyone in the team to be flexible and to adapt to the new situation.
The players are doing great and improving every day, while the staff is also playing its role well. It's a team effort.
Punjab FC has clicked all boxes ever since you took charge. How did you manage the turnaround in such a brief period?
Since taking over this role, I have tried to inculcate my philosophy of football in a structured manner. I went over past matches and analyzed them in detail to gauge combinations of different players together, and various other aspects. I had detailed discussions with the staff and understood their opinions.
It is impossible to make big changes suddenly. I have tried to help the players take small steps towards the style of play I expect from them. We have a great mixture of youth and experience in our squad, and we are looking to use that to our advantage. The most important thing is that the team is giving its best effort and we shall see where it takes us.
The Punjab outfit boasts a few names of international repute but has struggled to deliver consistently. Why?
I feel that we have quality players across our team, but it can get difficult at times for foreign players due to higher expectations from them. Our squad is being built for the future and I hope to see the overseas as well senior Indian players add something extra and guide our youngsters.
It is a distinguishing feature of this team, and I hope to see them push further. They need to improve every single day, make time in a tight schedule, and adapt to my new expectations from them.
In most games, Punjab remained goalless in the first half but recovered well in the second. Is that a team strategy?
This is simply the result of how we play as a team and showcases our fitness levels and squad depth.
Your team defeated a formidable Mohammedan in the last fixture. What are the positives you want to take from the last three wins?
I like to stress the importance of believing in our own way of play. It's a very competitive league where any side can defeat the other and we have the utmost respect for all our opponents. However, on the pitch, we like to play our own game and not adjust too much.
Athletes across disciplines are fed up with the bubble scenario. How do you see it impacting players mentally?
The circumstances are testing, and every team is going through the same challenges. Being part of an organization that stands for wholistic wellbeing, the Club has left no stone unturned in ensuring that we have everything we need for the development and wellbeing of our players.
It allows them to channel their focus on football completely and helps them deal with the challenges linked to bubble fatigue.
