FOREIGN ASSETS: Aizawl FC's battle to stay up has crucial roles for their overseas signings to play

AIZAWL FC'S RETURN to I-League was the result of a dramatic chain of events. It began with the Mohun Bagan and Aizawl fans standing united during the Federation Cup final and appealing for their reinstatement in the top division, then got pushed towards reality by the concerted exit of 3 Goan I-League clubs. In the end, AIFF inducted Aizawl FC back into the top division by a unanimous decision.

But now that they are back, Aizawl FC have the onus to prove that they belong in the league. There's also the aspect of making a case for their inclusion in League One next season after the merger of leagues takes place. To make that happen they must do better than they did last season. That means they must not be relegated.

To make that happen they have already taken some steps in the right direction. They've signed Khalid Jamil, a coach who kept Mumbai FC in the top tier during their hardest years. He has also brought in some experienced Indian players to go with Aizawl FC's speedy young bunch.

But still some of the vital positions in the squad have been assigned to the club's foreign signings. And after their performance against East Bengal in the first game, one has to say the whole operation is afoot on the right note.

Here's a look at Aizawl's foreign players for this season; players who already have quite a lot of experience when it comes to playing in India; something that should end up being a substantial advantage for the club.