Kolkata, Dec 14 : Subhas Bhowmick Tuesday took over as technical director of the beleaguered Mohun Bagan soccer team, saying he was taking up the job as a challenge.

Bhowmick's appointment came a day after Stanley Rozario quit as chief coach, following the club's lacklustre performance this season.

Asked how challenging would be the job, Bhowmick replied: "You cannot grade challenges and Mohun Bagan is a big name in Indian football... it is a challenge for any coach."

Club general secretary Anjan Mitra said Bhowmick would continue till the end of the season but the formal contract was yet to be signed.

This would be Bhowmick's second stint as a Mohun Bagan official, after a brief and ordinary association as coach in 1991.

Bhowmick, a dashing forward of the 1960s and 1970s, conceded that Mohun Bagan were under pressure after a series of poor performances.

"It is natural for the team to face a little mental pressure after its poor performances but this pressure will ease once the team starts delivering."

Asked about his team's key man Jose Barreto, Bhowmick said the Brazilian's dedication and contribution to Indian soccer was immense. "I have respect for him".

The technical director, who had his first practice session with the players Tuesday afternoon, said he would not field injured players.

"Injuries concerning players like Edeh Chidi, Muritala Ali have affected the team's performance. For short term gain I will not allow injured players to play in a match," he said.

Mohun Bagan are yet to win any trophy this season, and only managed to finish runners up in three tournaments - Federation Cup, Mohammedan Sporting Platinum Jubilee Cup and the local league. The celebrated club has also started the I-League on a wrong note, managing only a single point in three outings.

Bhowmick had earlier coached East Bengal to a memorable Asean Cup win in 2003, besides back-to-back National Football League titles.(IANS)