I-League 2017: Predicted XI for East Bengal

Midfielders

Mehtab was in great touch in the CFL and ISL

Defensive Midfield – Rowllin Borges and Mehtab Hossein

Rowllin Borges and Mehtab Hossein are expected to form the double pivot in midfield, and between the two of them, they have the ability to break down any opposition play. The veteran Mehtab has been in fine touch in the Calcutta Football League and the ISL, while Borges is easily one of India’s most exciting midfield prospects.

Gifted with exceptional vision and superb passing range, the duo will be a vital cog in the East Bengal midfield. Both of them are fit and are expected to start the home game on Saturday.

Attacking midfield – Abhinas Ruidas, Wedson Anselme and Jackichand Singh

Abhinas Ruidas, Wedson Anselme and Jackichand Singh will feature as the attacking trio. While Ruidas will start off on the left wing and new recruit Jackichand on the right, Wedson will play centrally.

Both the wingers are blessed with pace and guile, and they will need to deliver if East Bengal are to stay relevant in the title chase till the end. Fortunately, there is no dearth of options for them upfront, as both Romeo Fernandes and David Lalrinmuawa are equally adept in the wide positions and can come off the bench anytime.

Wedson will be expected to be the creative maestro in the middle, and pick up all the second balls as well as create space for the striker upfront.