Ashutosh heaps praise on coach Khalid ahead of final

Bhubaneswar: It was under Owen Coyle that Jamshedpur FC won their only trophy as the League Shield winners in 2021-22. But on Saturday, they can clinch their second trophy under Khalid Jamil — a man of few words and unflinching action.

The 48-year-old already has a few feathers in his cap by guiding Aizawl FC to the I-League title in 2017 — the first club from the northeast to do so — and in becoming the only Indian coach to take an ISL club to the playoffs, which he did with NorthEast United FC in 2021-22.

While the gaffer might be averse to speaking of his achievements, Ashutosh Mehta — a player who has known Jamil from his Mumbai FC days —is not disinclined to discuss Jamil's stature as a manager and human being.

"You're asking the wrong person about the coach, because I have only good things to say about him," said the Jamshedpur FC defender in an exclusive interview with TOI. "I'm not sure where to start."

A large part of Mehta's football journey has been guided by Jamil and he was also part of the Aizawl squad in its historic I-League triumph as well as the playoffs-qualifying NEUFC team under Jamil.

"I feel like I've learned a lot from him, like, a lot. I've always said that he has had a huge impact on my life, both on and off the field. His attention to detail, preparation, work ethic, exceptional reading of the game, man management and honesty are rare qualities. He is the only person whose intuition at times I trust more than I trust mine," reflected the right-back, who at times has been given a new role as a right midfielder or even a right winger by Jamil this season.

It's something that the 34-year-old has accepted with both arms and been one of the main implementers of Jamil's miraculous long-throw tactics that has earned Jamshedpur dividends in the latter half of the season.

"I'm adaptable and play various roles in each match. My focus is on delivering my best in whatever role I'm assigned by the coach and I'm always ready to support my team wherever needed," said Mehta while adding, "I prioritise developing my physical strengths, such as back and shoulder muscles, and flexibility. I also work on refining my technique."

Mehta would certainly like to win another trophy under Jamil on Saturday. But whatever the outcome, his admiration for his coach and his philosophy would stay the same.

"Jamil as a coach is dedicated, calm and doesn't seek attention. He's not fond of interviews and always gives credit to the players when we win and takes the responsibility when the team loses," explained Mehta.

"This speaks volumes about his leadership. What he's achieved as a coach over the years has influenced many Indian coaches and will continue to inspire future generations. That's a remarkable achievement," he added before signing off.