Preparations on in right earnest for new ISL season: Chennaiyin star Anirudh Thapa

"This season, I have to work even harder to achieve objectives, especially when it comes to goals and assists. Individually, I look forward to the coming season," he told reporters here on the sidelines of the launch of CFC' new jersey. "This year, we will reach the final and bring the trophy back and will play in the AFC cup.

All of us have missed playing at the Marina Arena and the atmosphere there. We are really excited to be back at the home field with you guys being there. We will be doing our best for the city and the team," he added.

The midfielder said the team for the upcoming season has a good mix of youth and experience. "The team is good. Many of the Indian players in the team are young.

The foreigners are experienced. We have a good squad. From what I have seen, all are working hard.

We are hoping for the best," he added. He further said new coach Thomas Brdaric is working hard, which is a positive sign. S "He (coach) works hard.

He wants us to run (a lot), which we lacked last season. That is a positive sign. It is difficult for foreigners to adjust to the climate.

He is ensuring we stay fit. We have just started training. We are working more on our fitness," Thapa added.

About playing in the Durand Cup ahead of the new ISL season, Thapa said: "We need game time to get used to the style that the coach wants us to play. Rafa was out (for long), he also needs game time. These matches are important to get together and get along well with other players (on the field).

"Durand Cup is different and ISL is different. We know the value of ISL. Durand Cup is important.

We will not be playing for fun. We will see what all we need to do in ISL via the Durand Cup," he said. Chennaiyin FC Co-owner Vita Dani said she