INDIAN ACES: Pune City count on their chosen ones to power their way into the semi-finals

AFTER FAILING TO make it into the semi-finals in the first two editions of the ISL, things have reached an edge at Pune City. The franchise is already under a lot of pressure due to lack of adequate fan response, and they are counting on this campaign to turn things around for them with an explosive entry into the playoffs.

The way they have built the team shows that purpose working underneath; the franchise has done all it possibly could to make sure the team has enough talent, depth and diversity to adapt to the evolving situations in the tournament and have the durability to power through the regular season, finishing at a respectable place.

The Stallions have raided other ISL teams for decent players; they have even gone and grabbed successful head coach Antonio Habas from Atletico de Kolkata. Anything to make the mark; because no one wants to fall short thrice in a row.

Although the weight of the team is still being carried by its foreign players (and they are facing a bit of a trouble there with marquee Eidur Gudjohnsen and defender Andre Bikey out with injuries), there are still some crucial Indian players who will be charged with important duties in the team; and in order for the team to succeed they must shine to their full potential. Here's a look at some of them.