Pune FC re-sign winger Lester Fernandez

Pune, Feb 18 (IANS) Pune FC have further strengthened their squad with the addition of winger and ex-player Lester Fernandez, who rejoined the club in the second-transfer window.

Lester, who spent two seasons with Pune FC from 2010-2012, has signed up till the end of the season.

The 28-year old thus becomes the club’s fourth signing in the recently concluded transfer window after Zeeshan Rahman, Gabriel Fernandes and Nicolau Borges.

Pune FC Head Operations, Chirag Tanna said: “We are very happy to have Lester back in our setup. I wish him all the best and hope he settles down quickly.”

A Tata Football Academy graduate, Bangalore-born Lester began his professional career at Dempo SC (2007-08) and was a part of their I-League winning side in the same season.

The crafty winger then spent a season each with Vasco SC (2008-09) and Salgaocar FC (2009-10) before joining Pune FC at the start of the 2010-11 season.

During his time at Pune FC, Lester went on to become a regular in the team and was also voted the ‘Fans’ Player of the Year 2010-11′ apart from helping the club to two back-to-back top-5 finishes.

At the start of 2012-13 season, Lester made the move to United SC for a transfer fee of Rs. 20 lakhs — a first in Indian football — after two successful seasons with Pune FC. His time with United SC was however marred with injuries which restricted his progress at the club.

The following season, he moved west to Mumbai Tigers. However, with his new team pulling out of the I-League, he missed out on top-flight action.