ISL 2017: Jordi Figueras Montel to lead ATK in absence of Robbie Keane

What's the story?

The all-new Indian Super League season is all set to get underway on November 17 and the first encounter will see the Kerala Blasters host ATK at the Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium in Kochi.

The defending champions have put together a formidable squad ahead of the new season with former Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool forward Robbie Keane leading the side.

However, in a crucial blow to the defending champions, their star striker is all set to miss the first few weeks of the ISL 2017 after suffering a strain in his Achilles tendon, as confirmed by manager Teddy Sheringham at a media event in Kolkata.

Now, donning the captain's armband will be Spaniard Jordi Figueras Montel and will lead the Kolkata side for the duration of the Irishman's absence, Sheringham confirmed to Sportskeeda.

In case you didn't know

Robbie Keane is one of the most prominent names in the latest edition of the ISL and was expected to light up the league from the start. However, fans will now have to wait for a while before the Irishman is back in action.

The heart of the matter

The defending champions will play out the season opener on Friday, in what will be a rematch of last edition's final.

Sheringham also spoke about the Blasters' fan, who are the most vociferous in the league, and was full of praise for them, referring to them as the team's 12th man.

However, he was quick to add a word of caution as well, stating that the team needs to pick up results as well to keep the fans on their side.

What's next?

The new season kicks off on November 17 and will be the longest in the history of the league, ending in March 2018.

Author's take

It is certainly disappointing to see a player like Keane out of action. However, Jordi's leadership credentials are also solid and he will surely be able to steer the ship until Keane's comeback.

Also read: ISL 2017: Injured ATK striker Robbie Keane to be out of action for around five weeks