Madgaon: Kerala Blasters captain Jessel Carneiro doesn't have the best season, but his team qualified for the Indian Super League final and stands favourite to win the title. 

Though sidelined with injuries, Goan footballer played a key role in mentoring his team and helping them reach the final. "The management was persistent that I should be there with the team during the final. Therefore, I joined the team camp after the bio-bubble period expired. We are sure we could win the title," he said.

He also pointed out the importance played by the management in identifying the right players for the club. "The success on the pitch is the product of their hard work. The foreign players and Indian talents worked conjointly to achieve this success. Even the players that were recruited were excellent. They were able to motivate and help young players from developing their game," he said. 

He also shared his disappointment in not being able to play in front of the home crowd in Kochi. "I am very close with everyone in the team. Rahul, Sahal and Prashant are very friendly. Rahul is teaching me Malayalam. Since I am a Goan, the players often visit my house," he added.