Mumbai City FC add much needed depth to the squad with 3 experienced Indian signings
MUMBAI CITY FC announced the signing of three domestic players into their squad for the Hero ISL 2016. Jackichand Singh, Aiborlang Khongjee and Boithang Haokip have secured their spot in the team following strong performances in the leagues. With the signing of this trio, Mumbai City FC has further strengthened their side by bringing in players that will complement the current squad.
Jackichand, Boithang Haokip and Aibor will all be representing Mumbai City FC for season 3 of the @IndSuperLeague! pic.twitter.com/wvfjykLfbH
— Mumbai City FC (@MumbaiCityFC) June 21, 2016
The 24-year-old Indian winger Jackichand Singh played for Salgaocar FC in the 2015-16 I-League season. He has been key to Royal Wahingdoh's promotion in the 2014 I-League, and its finishing third in 2015. Having been credited with 7 appearances for the Indian National team, Singh was also selected as the ‘Indian I-League Player of the Year 2014-15’.
Boithang Haokip known for his dribbling ability, plays for Shillong Lajong in the I-League. The 25-year-old winger is a set-piece specialist who is prolific down the wings and also an excellent player in central midfield. His prowess won him the FPAI Fans 'Player of the Year’ in 2014.
Aiborlang Khongjee is the next exciting signing at Mumbai City FC, who has the ability to play across the back four as well as in the defensive midfield position adding to the team’s defense. Khongjee has 7 appearances for India and was part of the SAFF Championship winning Indian team in 2015-16. He is the captain of Shillong Lajong in the I-League, and has also played for Mohun Bagan and East Bengal in the past.
Commenting on the selection, Indranil Das Blah, CEO, Mumbai City FC said,
"We are very happy to have Jacki, Boithang and Aibor with us for this season. All three of them have the grit and skill that we are looking for at Mumbai City FC. They are an essential part of the team's plan and we look forward to a great season with them."
By bringing in players with a proven record in the real top division league of India, Mumbai City FC are trying to come out of the rut that their previous two campaigns in the private tournament have landed them in. Even after these signings the franchise still has a lot of gap to fill up in the squad, especially because Sunil Chhetri can miss the start of ISL due to his commitment to Bengaluru FC, the champions of India, whose campaign in the AFC Cup may clash with the private tournament.
