Forward David Williams said the coronavirus will not play at the back of his mind when ATK take on Chennaiyin FC in the ISL VI final at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on Saturday. The final will be played behind closed doors, organisers Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) said on Thursday.

“No. Coronavirus will not be playing at the back of our mind. If we start thinking about that, then we are in the wrong business. We have to allow the right people to take care of that. We are very looked after at ATK, we have very competent medical team, a good medical support. Our focus is on final and nothing else.”

When asked whether he would prefer fist-bumps over handshakes, the Australian, who scored a brace in ATK’s come-from-behind win over Bengaluru FC in the second semi-final last Sunday, said shaking hands is no different from being marked during set-pieces.

“There are more contacts during corners, free-kicks or tackles. It’s better to be further away. In my mind, in a contact sport like football you have to deal with these things.”

Meanwhile, ATK right-back Prabir Das, who has produced a fantastic performance this season with five assists, is determined to bring home the trophy.

“This is surely the best season of my career. Last year, I missed out on the chance to impress my coach after suffering a knee injury in the pre-season.

“I went through a lot of obstacles during my rehab. I overcame those and this year I got the chance. I want to give my best in the final... If I can help my team win the title, it will be a successful season for me,” the 26-year-old said.

Williams too praised Prabir. “Prabir wants to improve with every game. He thinks about the team and not himself. He also listens to constructive criticisms. He has delivered well with some great assists. I think he needs to be tested in the national side,” Williams said.

Talking about the match against Chenniyin FC, Williams said: “The match will be more a battle of defenders as they look to contain the starry forward lines.”