ISL 2017/18: Kerala Blasters set to add former Portsmouth star Hermann Hreidarsson to coaching staff
What's the story?
Kerala Blasters FC have had an ordinary first eight games in the ISL so far and with fans demanding more from the players, newly-appointed head coach David James is under pressure to bring in some inspiration around the club.
In order to improve the performance levels, James is set to bring in his former Portsmouth team-mate Hermann Hreidarsson is on his way to join the coaching staff at the Blasters.
"He is a dear friend of mine. I will get him on my team in a few days. Before I joined, two support staff had left, so only Thangboi Singto and I were there. So, I will get him quickly," James revealed in a press conference before his team's match against the Delhi Dynamos.
In case you didn't know...
Hreidarsson played in the Premier League with Portsmouth and was a teammate of David James' at the club during an incredible run, where they won the FA Cup in 2008 and beat Manchester United on the way.
He has also played in the English top flight with Crystal Palace, Wimbledon, Ipswich Town and Charlton Athletic.
The heart of the matter
The news of Hreidarsson's appointment will bring relief around Kerala as the club is currently languishing in the eighth spot, well below the expectations that many had from them.
Having invested heavily in players such as Dimitar Berbatov and Iain Hume, the lack of goals scored by them remains a major area of concern. Hreidarsson's arrival at the club could perhaps be the confidence booster needed to rekindle their season and make a push for the semifinals.
What's next?
Kerala Blasters play fellow strugglers Delhi Dynamos in their next game on Wednesday, with Delhi having their own problems in front of goal.
Author's take
The appointment of Hreidarsson is certainly an interesting move by the Blasters and fans will be hoping for an immediate impact from the former Iceland international.