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What's the story?
Ugandan footballer Kizito Keziron has been confirmed as the newest signing for ISL franchise Kerala Blasters as they strengthen their squad after a poor start to the season.
In case you didn't know...
Kizito Keziron is a 20-year-old Ugandan midfielder who earlier played for Kenyan Premier League side AFC Leopards. The youngster was under contract with the Kenyan side, which was a hurdle for the Kerala Blasters to sign him at the start of the season, but now he has got the green signal to join them.
The heart of the matter
Kerala Blasters coach Rene Meulensteen confirmed Keziron's signing in his pre-match press conference ahead of their crunch game against Bengaluru FC on December 31.
"We needed a midfield player," said Meulensteen. "We had long talks (with Keziron's representatives) and now we are lucky to have the young midfielder," said Meulensteen. "Keziron is a very young promising player. Very versatile and energetic."
Kizito Keziron signed for the Kenyan side AFC Leopards back in June 2017 on a two-year contract from Ugandan side Vipers SC. Keziron was part of the Kerala Blasters' pre-season squad which trained at the Marbella Football Centre in Spain back in October.
Kerala Blasters had only signed seven foreigners before the season began and ISL rules allow them to sign a maximum of eight.
What's next?
Kerala Blasters are waiting for the final paperwork for Keziron's transfer to be completed and will announce his signing as soon as all formalities are done. Kerala Blasters take on Bengaluru FC in Kochi on New Year's Eve in a highly anticipated clash.
Author's take
Kerala Blasters made a couple of popular marquee signings like Dimitar Berbatov and Wes Brown, but their form in the league has been poor so far. They are currently eighth on the table after reaching the finals of the ISL Season 3. Kizito Keziron is a young talent and his signing will provide a boost to the Kerala Blasters as they look to regain form in the league.
