ISL 2018-19: 4 Coaches who can Replace David James at Kerala Blasters

#2 Ranko Popovic

Ranko Popovic coaching FC Tokyo against Brisbane - AFC Asian Champions League

Ranko Popovic is the man who guided FC Pune City to the playoffs last season. It was Pune's first-ever time at the playoff round.

Ranko Popovic is a man who has coached teams in Spain, Japan, Thailand, homeland Siberia and Austria. His stint with FC Tokyo in Japan was a highly successful one.

When Antonio Habas was sacked from the position of head coach just weeks before the ISL started last year, the Serbian Popovic was called to task. He was given less than three weeks to prepare his team and he surprised all by guiding them to the ISL semis.

A virtually impossible task, especially if you have no idea about the team. Ranko Popovic didn't complain though. He took up the challenge and delivered.

All that says of his determination and his passion for football. But all said and done, Ranko Popovic is currently committed to an Austrian club.

It means Kerala Blasters will have to pay a fee to get his services. Therefore, they may approach him only at the end of the season.