Kerala Blasters make three additions to strikeforce including former Benfica midfielder Joao Coimbra
Kerala Blasters have made a host of new signings for their squad ahead of the second edition of the Indian Super League. The Blasters struggled to score goals in their run to the finals of the first edition, and have tried to address the issue by stocking up on forwards.
Sanchez Watt and Antonio German are the two English additions expected to link-up with the experienced Chris Dagnall, who was signed by the coach Peter Taylor earlier in July. The three strikers will join Indians Mohammed Rafi, C.K. Vineeth and former Delhi Daredevils striker Manandeep Singh as the main forwards for the team, giving the coach plenty to consider when making his team selection for each game.
Sanchez Watt grew up playing football for Arsenal’s academy but failed to make a single senior appearance for the Gunners after promising performances at the youth level. Despite being openly praised by Arsene Wenger during the 2009-10 season, he was constantly sent away from the Emirates Stadium to prove his worth.
According to Manorama Online, the 24-year-old joins the Blasters from Colchester United, where he made 44 league appearances and scored 6 goals. He is an aggressive striker who makes fantastic runs, and likes to dribble and tease opponents during play.
He will be joined by fellow Englishman Antonio German who can play as a striker, as well as use his pace on the flanks. The 23-year-old is a graduate of the Queens Park Rangers academy and has scored some spectacular goals for his previous club Gillingham FC, although he will be looking to make a mark in India after finding himself out of the starting XI since November last year.
Manandeep Singh joins Kerala Blasters despite missing auction
Manandeep Singh is another young striker who joins the Kerala Blasters. Despite missing the auction, the 23-year-old Hisar native was picked up by the Kochi based franchise, and will provide another forward option for the men in yellow.
Speaking with Times Of India from Norway where he is undergoing a month-long fitness and training programme, Singh said: "I am happy to be selected for Kerala Blasters. Coach Trevor Morgan has shown faith in my talent. I am glad that he showed confidence in me, even after I suffered from knee and back injuries."
Joao Caoimbra signs for Kerala Blasters
In other news, former Benfica midfielder Joao Coimbra has signed for the Kerala Blasters ahead of the new season. The news was confirmed by a picture that was posted by an agent working with Portuguese football management firm Proeleven, who revealed that the 29-year-old will move to the ISL side after being released by Romanian club Rapid Bucuresti.