OWEN COYLE, THE COACH credited with Chennaiyin FC's resurgence last season, has joined Jamshedpur FC.
The former Ireland international has managed clubs like Burnley, Bolton Wanderers, Wigan Athletic, Houston Dynamo and Blackburn Rovers joined Chennaiyin FC in December after the franchise's dismal start in ISL 2019-20.
At a time when they were being written off as a bottom table contender, they pulled off a massive comeback under Coyle, finishing 4th in the league table. Of the 15 matches he was in charge, CFC won 8 and drew 3.
Jamshedpur FC who are trying to shake off a rough streak after finishing 8th last season, have brought him on as a tried-and-tested head coach capable of turning a team around under challenging circumstances.
Speaking to the media at a press conference today, Coyle said,
"It's going to be a huge challenge. Young Indian players are hugely important. We have to stand together. I'll make sure that when they speak about ISL, they speak about Jamshedpur FC. I want to bring success to this wonderful club."
Asked what made him choose Jamshedpur FC for his second season in Indian football, Coyle spoke about what set the Red Miners apart,
"I was surprised not only by the stadium but the playing field. It was as good as anywhere I have ever seen. I got to see the training ground, their playing facilities, & hospitality. It struck a chord with me."
The newly appointed coach insisted that the team would be a much improved and more competitive side in the 2020-21 season, with an emphasis on the domestic talent the club possesses,
"We're looking at all areas. The most important factor at the end of the day is to score goals. We are very working very hard to secure a good goal scorer. I am very excited to play with Indian players. They are so hard working. They just need to believe in their coach. I always tell my players, if you train hard enough, if your work hard enough, you will get opportunities. They have a great attitude to excel. And if they keep showing these qualities, they will do very very well."
Coyle's focus on Indian players meshes well with Jamshedpur FC's philosophy which stems from the legacy of the Tata Football Academy, one of the premier talent factories in the country.
Indications are, Coyle's role at the club will not be limited to producing results and compete for silverware. He may also become an important part in laying the groundwork for Jamshedpur FC to enjoy a strong supply line of players for decades to come.