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#3 A strong, balanced squad
In spite of boasting of some of the great names of world football like Wes Brown and Dimitar Berbatov, the Blasters failed to create an impact last season. Though fan-favourite Iain Hume and Mark Sifneos scored five and fours goals respectively, it was not enough to propel the Kerala team to the next round.
Lack of firepower in front of the goal was one of the major setbacks for the Kochi franchise in 2017-18 ISL season as they managed just 20 goals in 18 league matches. The forwards lacked pace and age was certainly the major issue.
This season though, they have built a strong and balanced squad compared to the previous editions. David James has brought in an array of Indian talents like Holicharan Narzary, Anas Edathodika, Zakeer Mundampara, Abdul Hakku and Dheeraj Singh.
The foreign recruits have been equally exciting- centre-forwards Matej Poplatnik and Slavisa Stojanovic, centre back Cyril Kali and Central midfielder Nikola Krcmarevic. Apart from a good mix of Indian and overseas talents, the squad comprises of both young and experienced stars.
Having addressed the major issue (lack of goals) by signing quality centre-forwards, the Blasters have made their intentions clear and might well go all the way this season.
