Chennaiyin FC sign Sajid Dhot on fresh two-year deal

CHENNAI: Two-time Indian Super League champions Chennaiyin FC on Saturday handed defender Mohammad Sajid Dhot a new two-year contract that keeps him at the club until 2024.

The 24-year-old was impressive in the six matches he had played for the club in the second half of the ISL last season.

"Sajid came in midway through last season and proved to be a solid addition to the backline when called upon. We are happy to have someone of his potential in our ranks," said Chennaiyin FC co-owner Vita Dani.

Featuring in the starting eleven in all the six games, he made 17 tackles and four interceptions. Dhot also showcased attack capabilities scoring once. He spent 496 minutes on the pitch before a muscle injury ruled him out of the club's last six league games.

And now after getting an extension, the Punjab-born footballer will be eager to continue his fine form in the upcoming season.

"I am very happy and proud to be part of this club for two more years. Last year I got my chances and gave my best. I only want to do better. I will give it my all for the club and the people," said the India International.

Dhot was part of the Indian team that finished runners-up at the 2018 South Asian Football Federation Championship. Besides playing one game for the senior national side, he had also represented the country in all age groups up to U-19.

Before joining Chennaiyin FC, Dhot, a product of AIFF Elite Academy, was part of Odisha FC's set up, formerly known as Delhi Dynamos for four ISL seasons. He appeared in 23 matches after making his debut in 2018.

He has played 37 matches so far in his professional career which also includes four I-League games for DSK Shivajians FC.