Mumbai City FC retain defender Cmovs, signs Bagan striker Norde

Czech defender Pavel Cmovs and Haitian striker Sony Norde will feature for Mumbai City FC next season

Mumbai, July 15 (IANS) Mumbai City FC retained Czech defender Pavel Cmovs and roped in Haitian striker Sony Norde for the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) tournament on Wednesday.

The second edition of the ISL is scheduled to commence on October 3. Mumbai begins their campaign against FC Pune City on October 5. The franchise has already announced French star Nicolas Anelka as their marquee player-cum-manager and recently shelled out Rs.1.20 crore to buy Indian national team captain Sunil Chhetri.

Cmovs made 13 appearances for Mumbai City FC in the first season and played for Romanian club Rapid Bucuresti after his stint with Mumbai City.

"I'm extremely happy and excited to be back for Mumbai City FC for season 2 of the ISL. The fans never gave up last year and I want to ensure that we give them more victories to cheer for this season," Cmovs said in a press release on Wednesday.

Norde spearheaded Mohun Bagan's I-League winning campaign last season, scoring 11 goals in 25 appearances. He is currently featuring in the ongoing CONCACAF Gold Cup in the United States for his national team.

On joining the team and being a part of ISL, Norde said, "I am extremely happy to have been signed for Mumbai City FC. I can't wait to join my new team for the pre-season training. The ISL is a new challenge for me and I am looking forward to helping Mumbai City FC achieve success."