ISL 2017: TEAM TRACKER – Chennaiyin FC Combined linking between the mids and forward the key

ALREADY HAVING ONE TROPHY in the bag, Chennaiyin FC will aim add another one this year. Chennai-based franchise won the Indian Super League in the year 2015. Last season was a disappointment as the team finished way outside the top four.

Materazzi decided not to return just like many ISL coaches. First of many tasks on the John Gregory's task list would be getting the team to the playoffs. A coach of his caliber and experience fits the bill well.

Also read: COACH CONTROL – Chennaiyin FC Coach John Gregory's vision about youth may differ from Materazzi

Last season, the defence of the team took a toll so that surely looks rectified with a good back line to help Karanjit in goal in keeping more clean sheets. Signing of 43-year-old Tony Warner as their goalkeeping coach for the campaign is a great step to boosting the goalkeeping skills. A good goalkeeper is always needs to be complimented by a stable defence. The defence consisting of new foreign recruit Inigo Calderon with combine well with Mailson Alves and Sereno, both who have prior ISL experience. Just that all three won't play together therefore the Indians like Keenan, Dhanachandra, Jerry Lalrinzula, Balmuchu will have to prove themselves to John Gregory to earn regular places.

A major problem last season was not being able to score too many goals consistently. Two experiences Indians Dhanpal Ganesh, Francisco and Bikramjit will have to lead the way till young guns Anirudh Thapa and Germanpreet find their touch and contribute handsomely in the midfield. The likes of Raphael Augusto, Jaime Martinez and Gregory Nelson will act as link ups to the forward line. A set piece expert among these can do wonders to the team's chances of scoring.

Jeje Lalpekhlua, a part of this ISL franchise since the start and has knocked in 13 goals across three seasons. Jeje can score and he can, from anywhere on the pitch. The 26 year old contributes with goals, and if he won't score, he is there to set up a few. The front runners and target men will have to be on their toes and be at par with the work rate of Jeje. Experienced Indian striker, Mohammed Rafi will be there among the ranks being looked upon by 18 year old Baoringdao Bodo. Of course, Nigerian striker Jude is one strong striker to have in the team with accumulated experience playing in countries like Denmark, Israel and Finland.

Chennaiyin have done some great work in the recruiting coaching staff as well. Getting sports scientist on board helps the team train with scientific methods and gain strength using modern methods. Overall the team is a much better shape compared to last season. The midfield certainly is tough to get by, Jeje and Jude alone cannot be left with the responsibilities of getting the goals. The midfield must rise and deliver. Consistency in both departments will ensure a smooth ride to the playoffs.

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