Lajong eyeing a first, Bagan aimless

Amid speculation that their highest paid striker Odafa Okolie has already parted ways, Mohun Bagan will take on Shillong Lajong FC in their concluding I-League fixture here tomorrow.
The Nigerian who last played for Mohun Bagan on April 13 in the 0-0 draw against United SC is learnt to have reached a 'settlement' with the club after they were not keen to retain the striker who had joined in 2011-12.
Despite investing big time in the Nigerian, Mohun Bagan's drought of trophies had continued this season as Odafa has been at his worst form and missed quite a few matches due to injuries.

Odafa has been absent at the team's training sessions for the last few days as he did not turn up on the eve of the match to add fuel to the speculation.
Tomorrow's match is also seen as the last one with Mohun Bagan for their Moroccan coach Karim Bencherifa as the club is learnt to be in talks with former East Bengal coach Trevor Morgan for the next season.
With nothing to gain or lose, the green and maroons who are currently 11th on the I-League table with 25 points from 23 matches will look to sign off with their heads held high.

Lajong, however, will not be short on motivation as this has been the best season for the Reds who are eyeing a first -- a top 4 finish, should Sporting Clube De Goa lose to newly-crowned I-League champions Bengaluru FC.

"We have a chance to finish at top 4. So the team has to be highly motivated. And I believe the players know that and will give their all on Sunday," Shillong Lajong Chief Coach Thangboi Singto said.
"Top 6 is guaranteed and this is the best finish for SLFC. All credit goes to the players, staff, management and the fans. A big thank you to everyone for believing in us."

Lajong are currently in the fifth position with 33 points.