We are not afraid of anyone: Gregory

At the fag end of the league phase, Chennaiyin FC were facing a slight slump with star attacker Jeje Lalpekhlua going through a lean phase. But John Gregory's side ensured they had enough in the tank and made  a commendable final push.

Gregory insisted that a striker's role was to score goals but at the same time backed Jeje, saying he had no doubts that the striker would bounce back.

"As a  forward, I'd expect you to score goals because that is your job. Players may go a few weeks without scoring and that would mean a loss of confidence. But with Jeje, I knew he'd come back strong and even when he isn't scoring, he contributes to the team in many ways. He will be a real threat tomorrow considering he's in great shape," the Englishman noted.

One of two teams to have beaten Bengaluru FC at home, Gregory said that victory gave his side  a morale boost ahead of the marquee clash.

"The fact that we have beaten them at this venue gives us confidence. When you know what to expect, it's a better feeling. That win showed us that they are not infallible at home. We are not afraid of anyone," he said with conviction.

A lot of Chennai's hopes will be pinned on Jeje but with a large chunk of Saturday's audience favouring BFC, it could be a tad intimidating for the visitors.  The 27-year-old is quick to dismiss it and put the onus on the opposition.

"BFC are playing at home so the pressure to win is going to be on them. For me, I'm just excited to be playing in front of a packed stadium."

Jeje also hopes history repeats itself after he  lifted the I-League with Mohun Bagan at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium back in 2014-15.

"I still clearly remember winning the I-League here on the last day of the season. Hope I will be able to do the same tomorrow," he said.