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What's the story?
Kerala Blasters thrashed Athletic de Coin for 1-0, thanks to the goal from Courage Pekuson, in their first pre-season match, signalling their intent for the upcoming edition of Indian Super League. The teams' victory in Spain has already promised the fans much hope for the edition.
With former Manchester United coach, Rene Meulensteen at their helm, the Kochi-based ISL outfit is all set to edge past their recent performance. However, the game vs Athletic de Coin has also given the fans an idea that you will captain them next season.
In case you didn't know
The forthcoming edition of Indian Super League is all set to kick-start on November 17th as two-time finalists Kerala Blasters and two-time winners ATK go head-to-head in what promises to be an electrifying party at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata.
With the tournament just a month away from its grandest kick-off, teams have been busy practising on the finest pitches of the world. To this trade, Kerala Blasters have been no exception as they are training in Marbella Football Center.
Heart of the matter
The game against Athletic de Coin witnessed Kerala Blasters put up a spirited show and they were obviously in the driving seat. For Kerala Blasters, Brown was the captain of the side, signalling a similar option to be taken by Rene Meulensteen in the ISL.
With the likes of many high-profile overseas players in the squad, top-quality Indian players, the selection of the captain needs in-depth study. For Meulensteen, Wes Brown seemed as the perfect man to lead the squad, considering his experience with Manchester United, his never say die attitude.
In the history of Kerala Blasters, Kerala Blasters opted defenders as captains, as their skippers in the recent editions were Aaron Hughes, Cedric Hengbart, Peter Ramage, though there is an exception in the case of David James.
The Sachin Tendulkar co-owned ISL franchise is renowned for their stern defence, in the all three editions, as the guardians at the back played immensely in helping Kerala Blasters reach the finals in two of them.
What's next?
Kerala Blasters marquee player Dimitar Berbatov didn't start against Athletic de Coin. Considering the fact Berbatov, Rachubka, Sandesh Jhingan, and Iain Hume are all compatible to wear the captain's armband, we can't say that Meulensteen's decision is final.
Author's take
The decision to choose Wes Brown to lead the Tuskers is laudable. The player with experience playing with a top European team in Manchester United, Brown could provide Kerala Blasters with much-required confidence and experience.
A player who can command the play from the back, Brown is the best man in Meulensteen's arsenal.
