2019 Asian Cup: 10 youngsters to watch out for

#6 Anirudh Thapa (India)

Anirudh with Sunil Chhetri

A product of AIFF Elite Academy, Anirudh Thapa suddenly got a chance to show his credentials when Chennaiyin FC’s Dhanachandra Singh was ruled out for the remainder of the season.

Anirudh was included in the team and handed his first professional debut against FC Goa. He played for 67 minutes and nearly scored a goal.

He also played a pivotal role for Minerva Punjab in the I-League, where he was loaned out to. Chennaiyin FC brought him back and Thapa impressed last season and helped his team to win the title for the 2nd time. He scored two goals in the campaign, including the one against FC Goa in the semi-finals.

He has become a regular feature in Chennaiyin’s midfield this season. But the two-time champions are witnessing a horrendous run this time and Anirudh too hasn’t impressed much.

He is one of the talented youngsters for the Indian team and it remains to be seen how he performs in the Asian Cup.

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#5 Bassam Hisham (Qatar)

Bassam plays as a right back

The talented youngster has spent a year on loan in the Spanish top division with Celta Vigo, though he didn’t get many matches under his belt. He also spent some time with Belgian club KAS Eupen and has gained enough European football experience before returning back to Qatar.

He started making headlines with his performance for Al Rayyan in his homeland and after his European sojourn, he switched his allegiance to Duhail Sports Club.

Normally Bassam plays as a right back, but he is equally comfortable up as a centre back and also can play in the centre of the field. The boy can score long-rangers.