The deal has been finally announced and Puitea has joined the club on a long term deal.
Kerala Blasters have signed Lalthathanga Khawlhring better known as Puitea on a long term deal, the club has confirmed. We earlier reported the rumor at the end of February. KBFC fans were happy to receive this rumor due to his previous performances. For the NEUFC fans, it was a normal procedure, as every season few players from their main team leave the club.
“I feel honored to have joined the Blasters family. It is a dream come true to play for one of the best fan bases in India, which was also one of the reasons behind my signing. The club and the fans are hungry for success just like me. With our teamwork, support from the people of God’s own country, and with God’s grace, I believe we can bring the ISL trophy to Kerala. That is why I am here! I cannot wait to join my new teammates, coaches, support staff and get the season rolling. Inni Yennum Yellow, Inni Yennum Blasters!” said Puitea who is excited and raring to go for the new season.
Previous Exploits
He came through the DSK Shivajians youth academy. The academy is already famous for producing stars like Lallianzuala Chhangte, Jerry Mawihmingthanga, and Rohit Kumar. After getting a loan to Aizwal from North East United FC he showed his talent. Although he got only one goal for the club, he was influential enough in the midfield. He played well against strong opposition. Impressed by his talent, Eelco Schattorie called him back where he played a regular part as the team finished in an impressive 4th position that season. Puitea was an influential player in the team and regularly provided good passes to players like Ogbeche. He even grabbed multiple Emerging Player of the Match awards that season due to his performances.
In the next season under Robert Jarni, his playing time was restricted to only 9 appearances owing to injuries. However, he still played amazingly well and had a passing accuracy of 72.98%. He is an amazing player and his previous exploits prove that he can be an even better player in the future.
Here is what the assistant coach of KBFC Mr. ishfaq Ahmed had to say about the player:
“Puitea is part of the breed of new generation Indian footballers who are quite comfortable with the ball at their feet. He has a great left-foot and can operate in various positions on the midfield, both centrally and out wide on the wings. Moreover, he also has a great vision and technique on the field. I believe he is an asset to the team and can go on to have a great future for himself as well, with the club.” said Ishfaq Ahmed, Assistant Coach, Kerala Blasters FC.
New Challenge: KBFC
With Kibu Vicuna now at the helm of the club, the player can be sure of his development. Kerala Blasters already have Sahal Abdul Samad in that position. It will be interesting to see how much game time he actually gets. However, he is surely an impact player and if he gets his chances he will do wonders. KBFC are building a good squad with a mix of youth and experience. The addition of Puitea will give another dimension to the team and a very good option on the field. Kibu will be hoping to get the best out of the player and improve the team’s performance.
Here is a link to the rumor that we reported earlier
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