UditVani, Jamshedpur : Winger Ritwik Das, set to enter his fifth season with Jamshedpur FC, has praised head coach Owen Coyle for fostering a style of football built on freedom, belief, and attacking intent-an approach he says has consistently brought out the best in his game.
Echoing Coyle’s vision of fast, exciting football, Ritwik highlighted the confidence the Scottish coach instils in his wide players.
Coyle, who has often spoken about wanting football that “gets fans out of their seats,” has once again reunited with Ritwik-a player he personally identified and signed during the club’s historic ISL Shield-winning campaign.
“First of all, it feels great to be back playing under him,” Ritwik said adding “Owen Coyle gives us confidence, belief, and the freedom to express ourselves. That guidance helps players like me a lot. It gives us extra motivation to work harder and perform, and I’m really looking forward to having one of my best seasons under him again.”
Jamshedpur FC recently resumed their training camp after a prolonged break from senior football, a period marked by uncertainty surrounding the league.
Ritwik admitted the wait was mentally challenging but said returning to the training ground has re-energised the squad.
“It was difficult for all of us to wait for the season to begin,” he said.
He went on to say, “The uncertainty was hard to handle, but the players stayed patient and raised their voices together to bring football back. Now the pre-season is very intense, and the coach is pushing us to be at our best so we can start the season strongly.”
While results remain important, Coyle has repeatedly underlined the need for a clear team identity based on attacking football and entertainment-something Ritwik feels aligns perfectly with his own strengths.
“When a coach gives you the freedom to express yourself, it automatically boosts your confidence,” Ritwik added.
Ritwik also pointed to the renewed discipline and positivity within the camp since Coyle’s return, noting the clarity and consistency in the coach’s messaging from day one.
“From the first day he arrived, there has been discipline and positive energy,” he said.
Looking ahead to the return of competitive action, Ritwik underlined the emotional significance of playing once again at the Furnace-Jamshedpur FC’s home ground, often described by Coyle as one of the most intimidating venues in the league when packed with fans.
“We missed it badly,” Ritwik said.
According to him, this is his fifth season with the club, and the best part has always been the fans and the atmosphere they create.
“We are all eagerly waiting to experience that again very soon, ” he signed off.
