5 Indian players with the highest potential in FIFA 18

FIFA 18 may not feature the ISL as a league in itself from the subcontinent, but it does include the national sides of some of the best sub continent countries. Among these, India is undoubtedly one of those countries that spring to mind when you consider the recent jump in FIFA rankings of the team as well as the fact that the FIFA U-17 World Cup is scheduled to be played across the country this year.

So there is no surprise really, that EA Sports' biggest franchise makes its way to India as a way to promote as well as diversify its roots across the world. The FIFA 18 Indian national football team isn't obviously anywhere near the top brass in the world, but it does have some exciting prospects.

With the U-17 World Cup nearby, there is a renewed feeling of optimism that the youngsters could pave a very decent path for themselves as well as Indian football in the years to come. Hence the potential of some of these players is sky high and could be fulfilled if coached and trained the right way. Here are 5 Indian players with the highest potential in FIFA 18:

#5 Daniel Lalhlimpuia - 67 (POT)

Daniel is an emerging player

You may not have heard too much about this particular youngster but the fact is that it's hard not to pay attention to Daniel Lalhlimpuia if you're a fan of Indian football. At just 20 years of age, the Mizoram native has lit up Indian football by becoming captain of the U-19 side and earning his senior cap a year ago.

His potential of 67 is largely due to his young age and the fact that he could become one of the leaders in an exciting group of revolutionary young players in the Indian national side. His overall rating of 54 may not be too fancy, but expect this number to grow as he matures and grabs some more caps for his country.

#4 Lalrindika Ralte - 67 (POT)

Lalrindika Ralte is a bright prospect

East Bengal fans are well versed with the name of Lalrindika Ralte and for good reason. The attacking midfielder made a name for himself at the Bengal club and has continued his good work for the national team as well. Since making his debut way back in 2011, the now 25-year-old Ralte has emerged as one of the players to guide India into the future.

His goals may be few and far between but his vision and skill seem impressive for a seemingly innocent looking player. His potential of 67 in the game comes for a reason and his overall rating of 64 is one of the better ones in the entire Indian squad. Watch out for this fiery North East native in the coming years.

#3 Sandesh Jhingan - 67 (POT)

Sandesh Jhingan has come a long way

Sandesh Jhingan has had a thrilling career so far in football. The defender has suddenly emerged as the most reliable player in the Indian backline and continues to impress at both club and International level. His regular match-winning performances for ISL side Kerala Blasters were hard to miss and he received his senior debut for the country in 2015.

4 goals in 16 matches for a centre-back since then seem highly satisfactory to me and if early signs are to be considered, this is just the tip of the iceberg. His potential of 67 could easily increase in the coming years as the 24-year-old makes a bigger impact in the beautiful game. His overall rating of 61 too could be set for an increase the way he's playing currently.

#2 Sunil Chhetri - 67 (POT)

Sunil Chhetri is a class apart

Sunil Chhetri is well and truly a class apart. The striker's incredible goal scoring record for his country has been well documented as of late and it is this need to score that has propelled him to the heights he touches today. Taking Indian football to the next level with everything that he does, Chhetri is the highest rated Indian player in FIFA yet again with an overall rating of 67 in FIFA 18.

That may not seem like much but it's been a struggle for Indian players to even break into the 60s in the game. His potential is just 67 due to his ageing body but there is no doubt that the Delhi man has done more than his bit when it comes to revolutionizing Indian football.

#1 Udanta Singh - 74 (POT)

Udanta Singh is miles ahead

Udanta Singh is rated the highest when it comes to player potential in FIFA 18 with a staggering 74 in the category. The 21-year-old is the shining light that was promised and his senior debut brought with it much praise and excitement for the future. The winger has the pace to burn and batteries which never seem to run out, making him ideal to play abroad and do well.

His run at Bengaluru FC has been impressive and the future looks very bright indeed for this young gun of Indian football. His overall rating in FIFA 18 is 61 but that number is largely misleading when you see the potential the game gives him. It's clear that he's the next big thing. It's now time to make sure he fulfils that potential and takes Indian football to the heights it deserves to go.