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What’s the story?
Veteran Indian goalkeeper Subhashish Roy Chowdhury is all set to create history today, at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi. In the fourth edition of this year’s ISL, defending champions ATK will face Kerala Blasters in the season opener and Chowdhury could be the last man in defence for the yellow army. If he starts tonight for Kerala, he will become the first footballer to play for four different ISL clubs.
The context
In last three years, Chowdhury played for three different clubs and this year it is very likely that he will start for Kerala. This time, he will face his former club and the city where he belongs in the very first match.
The heart of the matter
In the very first year of ISL, Chowdhury was part of the champion side ATK and he grabbed eyes of many with his brilliant glove work. He played eight matches for ATK that season. Next season, he shifted to Delhi Dynamos, but he featured in only one match.
Brazilian legend Zico signed him up for FC Goa in the third season. Unfortunately, he could not shine there either, as he played only four matches for them. This year, the Sachin Tendulkar co-owned side, who are also one of the title contenders, have signed Chowdhury.
What’s next
Chowdhury’s performance will be under the scanner in the first couple of matches, provided he gets an opportunity. All the questions will be answered, once the referee's whistle goes off tonight.
Author’s take
Chowdhury, for sundry reasons, has underperformed to some extent, but he works really hard to better his game. He was brilliant for ATK but sadly faded away. Hopefully, he can make a positive comeback this year.
