#3 Jo Paul Ancheri
Jo Paul, as he was fondly known as, did not possess exceptional height to win aerial battles for the ball. But his powerful physique made up for it beautifully.
Beginning his professional career in 1992, with the State Bank of Travancore, Jo Paul’s rise was very exciting. His powerful playing style made him a favourite at many leading Indian clubs, including Mohun Bagan, FC Cochin and East Bengal.
A very versatile player, he was a natural in different positions – defence, defensive midfield, midfield and attack.
The two-time IAAF Player of the Year suffered from some serious injuries during his peak. Had he been playing now, India’s answer to Brazil’s Roberto Carlos would have torn through ISL opposition teams’ ranks.