Calcutta: Other franchises may well have signed good footballers, but Atletico de Kolkata (ATK) remain the favourites for the second season of the Indian Super League (ISL), that begins on October 2, feels Bhaichung Bhutia.

Talking to reporters at the Calcutta Sports Journalists' Club on Tuesday, Bhutia emphasised on ATK being a more balanced side than the rest. "ATK definitely look good to retain the title...

"This year, teams like Chennaiyin FC and Mumbai City FC have roped in good players, but ATK look more balanced. Overall, they are a smart side," the ATK consultant said.

The forward line was an area of concern for ATK last season. It was mainly due to their strong defence and midfield that Antonio Lopez Habas and Co. managed to go all the way. However, with the likes of Portuguese Helder Postiga and Iain Hume added in the squad, the holders can afford to be far more attacking this time around, Bhutia said. Their addition will bolster ATK's attack.

"Last year, we did see Fikru (Teferra) doing a decent job in some of the matches. (Mohammed) Rafique too was impressive. But yes, this year there are possibilities of ATK playing a more game as they do possess the resources," he said.

Talking about this season's I-League, Bhutia termed East Bengal and Bengaluru FC as the favourites to finish on top. Now, if Sony Norde joins Mohun Bagan after the ISL, the defending champions could be the team to beat, he added.

"See, a lot will depend on the players' fitness post ISL, whether they have sustained injuries and so on... Those things could determine the teams' prospects...

"However, I feel East Bengal and Bengaluru FC stand a strong chance. But Bagan will also be the team to watch out for if Sony joins them."

Do Dong Hyun, a sensation for East Bengal in their sixth straight Calcutta Football League title, could play a determining role in the I-League, Bhutia pointed out. "It goes without saying that Dong is a fantastic player. So far, he has done very well for East Bengal. "He could be for East Bengal this season what Sony was for Bagan last time," Bhutia observed.

Moving on to the national team, the former India captain urged all concerned to be a bit more patient with Stephen Constantine and his wards, even though they have failed to impress so far in the World Cup Qualifiers.

"Stephen needs to be given some more time. It's a young Indian side and quite a few of the players are new to the environment... Stephen will certainly give a chance to players that have fared well in state-based league and other domestic competitions..."

Bhutia was all praise for the India under-16 that registered convincing victories over Bahrain and Lebanon in the AFC under-16 qualifiers in Tabriz City. "Barring the lone match versus Iran, the colts did a brilliant job thereafter. It only indicates that they are trying to keep themselves in the best possible shape before the under-17 World Cup (in 2017)," he said.

Bhutia will be leaving for Amsterdam on Wednesday for a football management course.

Meanwhile, Bhutia, who's also a founder member of FPAI and its former president, announced that the association will confer the Lifetime Achievement award to Shyam Thapa in its awards ceremony on Sunday. Sanjay Sen, Sony Norde, Ranty Martins and Pritam Kotal are among the shortlists for the coach, foreign and young player of the year awards. The ATK players and Habas, along with some co-owners of the franchise, are likely to be present at the occasion.