Manik will be standing for the eighth successive year at the helm when the Reds launch their title defence in the 12-team finals of country's major football competition.

Although coaches in domestic football have so far been regarded as a norm rather then a necessity, Manik redefined the meaning by winning the Premier League, Federation Cup and the National League for Muktijoddha. His achievement was all the more significant because it showed people that success can be earned without being a part of two proven giants Mohammedan and Abahani.

Manik however faces a more demanding task this time after the emergence of Brothers Union, who broke the bank to build a virtual national team.

"The departure of Rajani and Sujon certainly rocked my defence and it ultimately denied us a hattrick of titles last year," said Manik in an interview with The Daily Star Sport.

Manik led Muktijoddha to National League and Federation Cup glory before his side tumbled in the Premier League.

"The defence played a vital role in our National League and Federation Cup victories but unfortunately we failed to field the same line-up in the Premier League," Manik said adding that his two central defenders Rajani and Sujon were the best in the business.

But in the changed circumstance Manik wants to draw inspiration from the success of Greece in Euro 2004.

"I think good strategy is a major factor in modern day football and Greece is the best example for us. They did not have a star name but played like a disciplined unit and won the second best title in world football."

"This Muktijoddha team may not be the best side on papers. But this is also an ideal situation for a coach to prove his worth and I'm excited to take the challenge," said the former national midfielder.

Although Manik has lost his two trusted rearguards he possesses country's number one goalkeeper in Aminul. He also owns a creative midfield trio in Motiur Munna, Bidyut and Tushar. Young Saiful also has the ability to come out of the bench and create havoc with his tireless running and natural skills.

Manik has two potentially explosive attackers in Moni and Kanchan. But his problem lies somewhere else.

Star right-back Hasan Al Mamun, who is now in the United States, will miss the first leg at Mymensingh.

Besides, Manik feel that the time for preparation all the teams got for a major competition was too little for comfort.

"The organisers claimed it is the main tournament in the country but it is also unfair for them to force players into action only a week after the completion of another major league in Chittagong," said a bitter Manik.

He also put emphasis on good grounds for better football.

"A good ground is essential for quality football but unfortunately our players hardly get a chance to play on a proper field," said Manik.

The shrewd tactician said that he was expecting the biggest challenge from Brothers Union and dark horses Sheikh Russel Krira Chakra in the competition.

"Mohammedan and Abahani might get the biggest crowd behind them but it won't be a major factor on the battlefield. I think Brothers are real contenders after their success in the Premier League. I also rate Sheikh Russel as tough opponents especially after their fantastic run in the Premier League," he said.

Muktijoddha have been placed in Group A along with Abahani, Chittagong Mohammedan, Najir-para KC of Chandpur, Panchagarh Brothers Union, Kararchar KC of Narsingdi.

SQUAD
Aminul, Titoo and Zia (goalkeeper), Hasan Al Mamun, Papel, Lajuk, Deen Mohammad, Belal, Prodip and Ghansa (defence), Matiur Munna, Biddyut, Saiful, Kabir, Tushar and Masud (midfield), Moni, Kanchan, Enamul, Kaboa and Tipu (forward).