ISL 2017/18: Kerala Blasters' Coach David James denies rumours of roping in Brazilian Nilmar
What's the story?
The Kerala Blasters have not been having a very good spell at the ISL this year, with Dimitar Berbatov being out of form and Keziron Kizito suffering from a dislocated shoulder. To top it all, the team ranks 7th on the table.
After having offloaded their striker Mark Sifneos, the Kerala Blasters have been on the lookout to upgrade their team. As rumors sparked a possible roping in of Brazilian forward, Nilmar, Kerala Blasters coach David James's comment spoke otherwise.
In case you didn't know...
Featuring 7th on the rankings, the Kerala Blasters are not even halfway up the table, as a result of which, the rejuvenation of the team as very important. The team was in good form for their first three matches after the appointment of David James, however, two major defeats since then have not proved to be good for their future in the ISL.
The heart of the matter
According to rumors doing the rounds, the Kerala Blasters have been in search of a player after having transferred Mark Sifneos to Goa FC, and David James is said to have offered a contract to Brazilian forward, Nilmar Da Silva. The Brazilian was supposedly offered the contract until the end of the season as per rumors.
However, on being asked about this possible contract, coach David James retorted with a humorous comment to defy the rumors.
Therefore, confirming that the talks about a possible contract with Nilmar were not true, James also humorously roped in Brazilian Neymar Jr's name saying that they wish to sign a contract with him, but 500 million was acting as an obstacle. He also stated that the transfer window was still open, which clearly denotes that the team is still on the lookout for a replacement.
What's next?
Kerala Blasters will be facing Pune city today. The coach stated that Dimitar Berbatov has regained his fitness level and is hoping that they emerge victorious today.
Author's take
Nilmar, who is definitely a promising player, has not had a very good spell of late, which is probably why David James is not rushing into a hurried contract. It is yet to be seen who the Kerala Blasters rope in eventually.