Chennaiyin FC retains 10 Indians, including 3 locals

With the exception of the Tamil Nadu trio, two-time champion Chennaiyin kept hold of a septet, consisting of Anirudh Thapa, Vishal Kaith, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Thoi Singh, Deepak Tangri, Rahim Ali and Abhijit Sarkar. Among the 10-man group – in which each has an existing contract – only Pandiyan and Abhijit weren’t on CFC duty during ISL 2019-20.

 While Pandiyan had a spell on the sidelines because of a long-term injury, youngster Abhijit spent a season on loan at I-League outfit East Bengal. With extensions being handed out to the Brazilian duo of Rafael Crivellaro and Eli Sabia as well as Jerry Lalrinzuala, a total of 13 players will continue their association with the club.

 Edwin, who operated as a rightback and central midfielder in ISL Season 6, is glad that Chennaiyin managed to keep its Indian core intact. “Last season, the Indians showed lots of improvement and played key roles in the results the club achieved. The players adapted to life well at CFC and it is great that we will be together once again,” Edwin told DT Next.

 “We created a family atmosphere and that could be one of the reasons why most of them decided to continue. The Indians feel comfortable here and all of us returning is a positive sign for the club,” added fan favourite Edwin. Central midfielder Thapa, on his part, said that CFC would look to build on the memorable campaign it had in ISL 2019-20.

 Despite a slow start, Chennaiyin turned things around in stunning fashion, finishing second to title-winner ATK (now ATK Mohun Bagan). “It is good that the nucleus of the side is the same. It is important for us to take the consistency and mentality from last season into ISL 2020-21,” felt Thapa, who is all set to don the CFC jersey for a fifth season in a row.

The retention of Edwin as well as midfielders Dhanpal and Pandiyan was welcome news for the Chennaiyin supporters. Through the highs and lows, the fans have always taken pride in calling every member of the triumvirate “One of their own”. Talking about the trio’s journey with CFC, Edwin stated: “The supporters will be delighted. The local connect between the club and the fans will continue. Hopefully, more lads from Tamil Nadu will sign for Chennaiyin in the coming years.”