4. Carl McHugh – ATK Mohun Bagan
A rather underrated player for this year’s finalists ATK Mohun Bagan, Carl McHugh has been a consistent performer for the team. The Irishman was a pivotal character for Mohun Bagan in their title winning season in 2019-20. A natural centre back, McHugh has fit in quite well in the midfield for the Kolkata giants.
The defenders of the team had done a commendable job in letting in just goals throughout the season. But McHugh was crucial for pulling the strings in midfield. He has taken 1082 touches this season, making 39 clearances and 32 interceptions. Although playing as a deep lying midfielder, he often joins the attack timing his runs into the box. His passes and movement make up for a good box to box midfielder.
ATK Mohun Bagan finished second in the league table, conceding only goals which was the lowest by any team. Though the defence virtually takes the credit, the unseen work of McHugh at the number 6 position has to be given notice. Putting in timely interceptions, initiating attacks from the back were crucial for the team.
3. Khassa Camara – Northeast United
Northeast United’s dream run in the group stages owes mainly to the midfield which has been solid and consistent. Youngster Lalengmawia has been named the emerging player of the season. Along with him, another key player who joins him in the defensive midfield was Khassa Camara. The Mauritanian is a balanced box to box midfielder with matching strength and vision. He started his career with French Ligue 2 club Troyes and played in the Greek top division with before joining Northeast United in 2020. He also represents Mauritiana internationally although being born in France.
A natural number 6, Camara’s ball skills and positioning are second to none in the team. Unlike other defensive midfielders, he makes his presence felt with his work rate and movement. Coupled with fine dribbling, Camara has been able to cover every end of the pitch to contribute up and down the field. He has made 50 interceptions, 816 passes, 1066 touches throughout the season.
Northeast United doesn’t boast of any star strikers and and evidently a playoff finish was not really expected from the side before the season started. As the season progressed, it was the combined effort of everyone in the team which had resulted in its final position in the table, also with Khalid Jamil clicking with the squad. A dynamic midfield ensured constant initiating of attacks and tracking back for the ball. It was evident that the spine in the midfield was what helped Northeast United to maintain consistent performances. And Camara played a huge part in it. A box to box midfielder with immense work rate is always handy for any team.