Central Midfielder – Borja Fernandez
Another one of Kolkata’s Spanish contingent, Borja Fernandez has become a fixture in the defensive midfield position for the team. Borja is set to start his third ISL season with the Kolkata outfit and will look to maintain his previous form. He forms a sturdy opposition in front of his defenders ready to stop any attackers from the other side trying to make their way through. In fact, in 2014 he had the highest number of tackles at 63.
Trending
Central Midfielder – Lalrindika Ralte
After playing for Mumbai City in the first-ever ISL, Dika is back this season as a player for ATK. Even though he is primarily well-known as an attacking midfielder, ATK can make good use of him in the heart of their midfield alongside Borja. With the Spaniard forming a defensive cover in front of the back four, Dika will have the opportunity to make forward runs and open up space for his more advanced team-mates.
Ralte already considers Kolkata his second home after playing for a number of years in the Red and Yellow of East Bengal in recent times. This will be a pivotal year in the Ralte’s career as he seeks to fight his way back from a long injury layoff.
Right Wing – Sameehg Doutie
South African right winger Sameehg Doutie has been retained by ATK for the 2016 edition of the ISL after his stand-out performance last year. In a season that was obviously disappointing than the one before, Doutie was a powerful force running up and down the right flank. With 3 goals and 6 assists last year, ATK will be hoping he’s up to doing more of the same this season.
Left Wing – Bikash Jairu
A product of the ‘Search for more Bhaichung Bhutias’ campaign, Bikash Jairu is on loan with ATK from I-League team East Bengal. He played in the ISL last season as a winger for FC Pune City but was utilised in a limited manner. As a new ATK player, Jairu will look to make his mark on the team with goals and assists that will help his team move forward.
