Indian Super League 2016: Arsenal ‘Invincible’ Graham Stack joins Kerala Blasters

Kerala Blasters today announced the signing of English-born Irish footballer Graham Stack for the Indian Super League 2016. Stack came through the ranks at Arsenal and was part of the Gunners’ unbeaten ‘Invincible’ run in the 2003-04 season of the Premier League. He brings with him extensive professional football experience having played for KSK Beveren, Millwall FC, Reading FC, Leeds United FC, Wolverhampton FC, Plymouth FC, Blackpool FC, Hibernian FC and Barnet FC.

Stack made seven appearances for the Republic of Ireland national under-21 football team. He joined Arsenal in the summer of 1998, and signed his first professional contract in July 2000. His Arsenal debut came in a League Cup match against Rotherham on 28 October 2003, a match his team won 9–8 on penalties; Stack scored in the shootout.

Stack has experienced winning the Premier League with Arsenal, the Championship with Reading and Wolves, and the Conference with Barnet. Drawing on his own experiences, he has worked with young players aged between 15 and 18 to raise awareness and educate them regarding the challenges they will face during and after their football careers, both on and off the pitch.

Stack is a UEFA-A Licensed Player and Goalkeeper Coach and at Barnet FC he had also taken on the roles of First Team coach and Goalkeeping coach whilst still playing. At Kerala Blasters, in addition to playing for the team, Stack will also be working with Coach Steve Coppell as Goalkeeping coach for the younger players in the team.

Graham Stack said, “Coming to India and being part of a side like Kerala Blasters is an exciting challenge. I am looking forward to meeting my new team mates. I believe in being pro-active in giving the young players the best opportunity to be successful and maximize their full potential, and working with Coach Steve will help me make a difference and keep the team focused.”

Steve Coppell said, “I welcome Graham Stack to the Kerala Blasters fold. He is a passionate and highly driven player who will add to the synergy of the team. Graham along with Aaron would be assisting me in mentoring the younger players through the season. I am looking forward to working with him.”