5 stars who have shone the brightest in Indian Super League's third season so far

The Indian Super League this season has been bigger, better and more tactical than ever. If you don’t believe me, then take it from a World Cup winner:

“India will soon be a big destination for international football. Given the level of competitiveness in the Indian Super League and the quality of Indian players, I am sure it will be amongst the top five football leagues in the world in the next decade,” said Gianluca Zambrotta.

Aside from the collective team strength on show this year, there have been plenty of brilliant individual performances too. Here is a look at the five players who have made the best impression in the ISL so far this season.

1. Emiliano Alfaro

The 'other' Uruguayan in the ISL was a complete unknown when he arrived in India. But his performances in the opening four games have put his name on the lips of the fans in all the eight North East states.

The highest rated out-and-out striker in the league, Alfaro's showings in the season so far have earned him an average rating of 7.59.

Alfaro is what they call a midfielder’s dream. He's always on the move, and always ready to come short or spin behind for the long ball. He is committed, talented and a lethal finisher, and the three goals he has scored so far this season are ample evidence of all that.

Hurry the goalkeeper and force him to make a mistake? Check. Run in behind and finish between the goalkeeper's legs? Check. Make the most of a lucky deflection in the box? Check.

Alfaro's telepathic understanding with Nicolas Velez enabled the pair to terrorize the Pune defence despite being a man down.

Moreover, you pick your cult heroes in the manner that they celebrate their goals. And boy does Alfaro celebrate!