FIFA U17 World Cup: 5 Indian players who might just have caught Man Utd scouts' attention after Colombia game

Last week, reports had emerged that scouts from Premier League giants Manchester United were keeping tabs on Indian U17 sensation Komal Thatal. While there proved to be little no backing to that claim, it was confirmed that scouts from the 20-time English champions were indeed present at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium yesterday to watch India take on Colombia.

India did go on to lose 1-2 to the South American team but they won hearts with their brave display. They enjoyed only 30 percent of the possession and yet gave Colombia a hard time on the field. Many football pundits around the world acknowledged India’s performance and took notes.

Given the way the youngsters performed, it wouldn’t be too farfetched to wonder that some of them caught the eye of the scouts present during the game.

Here, we list five players who might just have done enough to impress the scouts.

#5 Rahul Kannoly

Rahul KP had a different role to play

One of the few players who impressed in the first game, Rahul Kannoly was sure to retain his place in the starting XI. However, he was asked to play in a different position by coach Luis de Matos against Colombia.

The Kerala boy, though, was unfazed by this change and went on to produce a solid performance that trouble the opposition time and again. He strived to keep possession for his team, went forward with menace and even managed to give his defenders more cover.

He was unfortunate enough to see his superb left-footed volley hit the crossbar and come out in the first half. But surely, the youngster did enough during the course of the 90 minutes to impress any scout watching the game.

#4 Jeakson Singh

Jeakson scored India's equaliser

Jeakson Singh may have become the new hero of Indian football after he became the first from the country to score a goal at the World Cup but for football connoisseurs, he had already made an impression during the first half.

The lanky youngster was a livewire in the heart of the midfield, winning those 50-50 duels, closing the opponent down and often, starting the attack for his team. He was doing much of the dirty work for his team, hustling and bustling the Colombian players to win the ball back. And yet, Jeakson was disciplined enough to avoid any booking.

His passing was simple and effective. The way he shut out Colombia’s main man Yadir Meneses, got involved in the attack, and took his goal to equalise, would have surely been noticed by the scouts.

#3 Anwar Ali

Anwar Ali had a brilliant day at the office, at the cost of a few knocks

Anwar Ali, who started out as a left-back and was only recently transitioned to the centre-back role, is one of the first names on Luis Norton de Matos’ team sheet. On Monday, he showed once again why the coach had such immense trust on him.

Throughout the 90 minutes, Ali was tenacious and, at the same time, ample at the heart of the defence. His never-say-die attitude saw him making several crucial last-minute tackles that even accomplished defenders fail to pull off.

He was strong on the ball and even managed to bully the Colombian forwards. The Punjab lad brought an indomitable spirit at the back that helped in containing the attacking threat. It was a memorable performance, one that proved that Ali is one of the brightest talents in the country.

#2 Boris Singh Thangjam

Boris played well in his 1st World Cup game

Making his first appearance in the World Cup for India, Boris Singh Thangjam made quite an impact with his persistent presence on the right flank. He showed the world why he is being considered as one of India’s brightest prospects for the future.

He was a fatal weapon at right back last night as he ran up and down the pitch tirelessly. Boris contained Colombia’s Leandro Campaz, making numerous crucial tackles and clearances. And while he stabilized the defence considerably, most of India’s attacking threat came through him.

Seldom he waltzed his way forward and sent in inviting crosses. Twice, he created glorious opportunities for his teammates. Until he took a knock in the second half, Boris was India’s best performer in the outfield. It would be safe to say that he earned some new fans yesterday.

#1 Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem

Dheeraj was a commanding presence, yet again

Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem has been India’s best player so far in the World Cup. Despite conceding 5 goals in two matches, there is something about this lanky goalkeeper that has everyone talking about him.

He had impressed against the USA, and against Colombia, he was once again the star performer for the Boys in Blue. The Colombians, known for their long-range shooting, were eager to test the shot-stopper early and were unleashing powerful shots on goal throughout the match.

But Dheeraj was up to the task. He thwarted the South American opponents time and again, fisting away the efforts from distance and charging out to make crucial interceptions and clearances. If there is anyone in the Indian team who has seriously impressed any scout, then it has to be Dheeraj.