Jamshedpur FC had showcased some brilliant football that allowed them to push ahead of the rankings and after a grueling journey, emerged as champions of Hero ISL 2021-2022’s League Stage. Their forward, Greg Stewart was also adjudged as the best player of the season. After leading the Men of Steel to lift the ISL Shield, Head Coach Owen Coyle stepped down from his role. However, they roped in Aidy Boothroyd, who has coached multiple English youth sides. Boothroyd has had an eventful career and led the EFL team, Watford, to the Premier League in 2006 and led the English youth team to victory in the Toulon tournament.
Jamshedpur FC fielded their reserve team in the 2022 iteration of the Durand Cup. Although they were unable to clear the group stages, it gave the players much-needed experience and exposure against teams such as Bengaluru FC and Mumbai FC who sent their main squad to the tournament. The performance of Nikhil Barla was of note and caused his promotion to the main team for the 2022-23 ISL tournament.
Head Coach
Jamshedpur FC has signed Adrian “Aidy” Neil Boothroyd as the head coach after Owen Coyle vacated the position after two illustrious years with the club. Boothroyd is a former player and has had a great run managing EFL team Watford during which he was hailed as one of the best young managers.
His tactics are attack oriented and in his early years, he was known for his ‘hoofball’ tactic where his players sent the ball to the final third for opportunities at a goal. His tactics have evolved and while still remaining attack-oriented, he urges players to have an efficient sense of link-up play.
After managing some other clubs, from 2014 he was associated with managing the English U-19, U-20, and U-21 teams and led them to win the Toulon Tournament in 2018. He has also managed established English players such as Phil Foden and Marcus Rashford during their tenure in the national team.
Foreign Signings
This year Jamshedpur FC has signed English player Jay Emmanuel Thomas to strengthen the attacking third in the absence of Greg Stewart. The midfield sees the return of a familiar face with the signing of Wellington Priori. His addition bolsters the midfield further and an experienced player can help the newcomers to adjust to the team and the place. Harrison Sawyer has been signed from South Melbourne FC to give the Red Miners’ attack more options.
Indian Signings
Jamshedpur FC has signed defender, Muhammad Uvais from Gokulam FC to further strengthen their defense and increase their defensive options. Goalkeeper Rakshit Dagar, another transfer from Gokulam, has joined the Men of Steel to accompany Rehnesh after vacancies were made due to transfers. Sheikh Sahil has also transferred from Mohun Bagan and adds more opportunities and strength to the midfield.
Top Three Signings
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, Muhammad Uvais, Wellington Priori.
Strengths
Aidy Boothroyd brings with him his invaluable experiences as a coach and his ability to bring out the best from young talents which will benefit Jamshedpur FC’s younger members and the team overall. Jamshedpur has managed to retain its core players, especially in defence which allows for a variety of options for defence. Further, they also have a lot of depth in the wings which allows for intriguing utilisation of the team’s capabilities. Farukh’s return will bolster the team’s offensive capabilities.
Weaknesses
Jamshedpur FC opens this season at a slight disadvantage as their last season’s best player, Greg Stewart has transferred to Mumbai City FC this year. Their overall foreign players do not appear as lustrous as last year’s contingent. With it, they also lack impactful players in the final third. There may seem to be an over-dependence on Daniel Chima Chukwu for goals.
Possible Line up for 22-23 Season
Conclusion
Jamshedpur FC has lost a few key individuals who helped them achieve their victory in the previous season. However, they have managed to hold on to their core team, especially in the defensive department. Their new coach is experienced in dealing with young players and can tap into their potential. Their performance now depends on how well the newcomers adjust to each other and India, and Aidy Boothroyd’s ability to guide his players.
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