ISL 2017: Predicted XI for NorthEast United FC
NorthEast United FC is a club which represents the Northeastern section of India, and was started by Bollywood star John Abraham. They have been mostly concentrating on the development of the young players based in the 8 states of the North East. However, they are yet to have any major success in the Indian Super League
In the Inaugural season of ISL they finished last under Ricki Herbert, while finishing fifth in the 2 subsequent seasons.
A brand new season and a brand new opportunity, we look at how the Guwhati outfit might line-up in the fourth season.
Sportskeeda looks at the strongest eleven on paper of NorthEast United FC, which is owned by Bollywood star John Abraham and coached by Portugese manager player João de Deus.
Formation: 4-3-3
Goalkeepers and Defenders
Goalkeeper: TP Rehenesh
TP Rehenesh has been the highest capped player for NorthEast United FC in Indian Super League with 27 appearance for the highlanders. The young player from Kerala has been a regular starter and the star player for the highlanders for the past 3 season, and is expected to start in front of the goal this season as well. NEUFC have not signed any other player in his position.
RB: Reagan Singh
Reagan Singh, 26 has been the part of the NorthEast United FC for last 2 season and has been a regular starter for the 2015 season. The right back is expected to start at the right end of the defence, as there is no strong challenge for the position.
CB: Nirmal Chettri
The 27-year-old defender has played 15 matches for the senior national team.Chettri was a part of the Kerala Blasters team who finished as runners up in Inaugural season. He joined NEUFC last season and played 8 games for the highlanders before joining DSK Shivajians on loan. Nirmal Cheettri is back at NEUFC and is expected to start at the heart of defence as the quota for foreign players has been reduced to 5 players.
CB: Martín Díaz
The 27-year-old Uruguayan defender joined NEUFC this season and will be a strong presence in the defence along side Nirmal Chettri. The huge frame from Montevideo will be a good threat for the opposition in set pieces and will neutralise any threat in the NEUFC area. He has played for Uruguayan side Liverpool FC, Asociación de Rafaela and Montevideo Wanderers before joining the North East side.
LB: José Gonçalves
The 32-year-old Portuguese defender can play as a left back and a center back, and we think he will start ahead of Robert Lalthlamuana as he has more experience and strengthens the defence line. The Basel youth product has played in many good European clubs like Hearts, FC Nürnberg, St. Gallen, Sion before coming to NEUFC. Jose has scored 8 goals from 182 matches in various leagues.