East Bengal will look to overcome the fatigue factor as they resume their campaign in the top tier I-League against Air India here tomorrow.
Having played 15 matches in the last 47 days at home and abroad, East Bengal looked jaded against United SC to go down in the IFA Shield final.
The one-and-a-half month breather in the I-League did not really help the red-and-gold brigade as they were forced to play the local league, IFA Shield, besides in the continental AFC Cup when other teams rested.
But with six more rounds left in the I-League, time is running out for the last two season's runners-up who are are now placed behind leaders Churchill Brothers in the table.
"The fatigue factor has become a major worry as the team played frequently in the last couple of months," coach Trevor Morgan said.
"We have to win at least five out of the six matches in order to have a go at the title," Morgan said.
The Englishman sounded positive as they are to play five of the six matches at home.
"We have no big injury worries and hope that the boys play true to their potential."
Morgan has a reason to be optimistic as his team has maintained good rhythm having won three, drawn one and lost one in the last five rounds.
Nigerian Uga Okpara, East Bengal's defensive mainstay, did not attend the team practice because of a stomach ailment.
The coach said he would take the final call tomorrow morning.
The other foreigners including Edeh Chidi, who had a hamstring pull and played as a substitute in the Shield final, are available for selection.
Air India, who lost 0-3 in the first leg, face an uphill task having lost three in the last five outings.
Former International Naushad Mossa, who is the new Air India coach, said it would be a big task taking on East Bengal at home.
"East Bengal are a balanced side and are in good form. It will be a big challenge for us and I hope our boys are prepared for it," he said.
Having lost to Churchill Brothers 0-3 in the previous match, Moosa said he would be keen to pick up a point.
"As a coach I would love to see my team win. It will definitely help us do well in the next rounds," he said, adding that all the players were available for selection.
Air India are currently placed 12th in the league standings with 18 points.
