The juggernauts from Malabar are one of the most followed clubs in India. The two time runner-ups are looking forward to clinch the most awaited title this season. They are also famous for recording the highest attendance in ISL till date. With a recent form of DLDLW they are all set to face ATK in the season opener scheduled on 20th October. Having recently played pre season friendlies against Real Kashmir FC and Kerala Santosh trophy team, the new gaffer Eelco Schattorie is ready with the new mix.
THE SQUAD:
Goalkeepers : Bilal Khan, Rehenesh TP, Shibinraj Kunniyil
Defenders : Mohammad Rakip, Sandesh Jhingan, Gianni Zuiverloon, Lalruatthara, Jairo Rodrigues, Jessel Carneiro, Pritam Singh, Abdul Hakku.
Midfielders: Sahal Abdul Samad, Mario Arques, Moustapha Gning, Halicharan Narzary, Rahul KP, Sergio Cidoncha, Samuel Lalmuanpuia, Jeakson Singh, Darren Caldeira, Prashanth K, Seityasen Singh.
Forwards: Bartholomew Ogbeche (C), Raphael Bouli Messi, Mohammad Rafi.
Squad Analysis :
Goalkeeper: Bilal Khan the most probable choice for the GK position has been in a great touch.For the 2018-19 season. Khan played for Real Kashmir FC on a loan. With 9 clean sheets to his name out of 19 games, Bilal is one of the players who could make his mark in the ISL this season. TP Rehenesh on the other hand, would be the secondary GK. TP Rehenesh has played for Shillong Lajong, East Bengal and Northeast United FC beforehand. RATING: 7/10
The Defence: Sandesh Jhingan the most experienced man for the Blasters was supposed to lead the defence but owing to his injury, he might miss out a few games. With recent signings like Gianni Zuiverloon and Jairo Rodriguez the defence seems to be decently good. RATING : 7/10
The Midfield: With the emerging player of the last season, Sahal Abdul Samad in their mix, Kerala Blasters look pretty strong in the midfield. And as the name suggests the Blasters have a blast-y and dynamic midfield. With the inclusion of Mario Arques, Moustapha Gning and Halicharan Narzary the midfield has got an edge above others. The young colt Jeakson Singh, the first Indian to have a worldcup goal on his name will also play for KBFC in the upcoming season. RATING: 9/10
The Attack: Barth Ogbeche, the most prolific striker for NEUFC last season, will be leading KBFC this time. The joint second highest goal scorer will be a vital cog for the Blasters. Raphael Messi Bouli, the Cameroonian CF will also try to make the most out of the opportunites that he gets. This season might just be the break through season for CK Vineeth who is returning from loan. RATING 9/10
TOP 11
Bilal Khan, Mohd. Rakip, Lalruatthara, Zuiverloon, Carneiro, Gning, Arques, Cidoncha,Sahal Abdul, Lalmuanpuia, Ogbeche.
Overall RATING: 8/10
In form Bilal Khan will guard the goalposts. Owing to Jhingan’s injury Zuiverloon will lead the back 4. The chemistry between Cidoncha- Sahal- Ogbeche would be worth to watch out for. Also, Ogbeche will spearhead the attack doubling as the Captain of the Yellow brigade.
