#2 CK Vineeth
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It would not be a stretch to say that Kerala’s revival started with the arrival of Vineeth after his AFC Cup exploits with Bengaluru FC. Vineeth has scored five goals for Kerala and three of those goals ensured that his side took away all three points from the game.
The Kannur-born player has relished being given the responsibility this season. Even at Bengaluru, Albert Roca played him as the central striker, making him the focal point of all their attacks.
His role has been slightly different for Kerala though. Playing for a team from his home state has clearly motivated him further, as he has enjoyed his stint with the Blasters, both on and off the pitch.
The form of Haitians, Duckens Nazon and Kervens Belfort, has meant that Vineeth has played out wide, but that has not deterred him one bit. He did not score in either leg of the semifinal but the threat that he posed was evident.
His pace will be critical in Kerala trying to get in behind the Kolkata defence on Sunday. But his pace is not the only threat. His work-rate is stellar, as good as any other forward in the league. Henrique Sereno and co. will be aware of that and they will have to ensure they don’t dwell on the ball for too long.
With Mohammad Rafi likely to be absent for the final, there is a responsibility that falls on the shoulders of Vineeth. He will play on the shoulder of the last defender and will be Kerala’s most important attacking outlet in the final.
