ISL 2018-19: 5 Key Players for Bengaluru FC This Season

#4 Erik Paartalu (Defensive Midfielder)

To brand Erik Paartalu as just a defensive midfielder would not do justice to his repertoire of skills on the pitch. While the Australian is quite adept at breaking up play, he is quite the all-round midfielder who can help out in both defence and attack.

Paartalu anchored the Blues midfield alongside the hard-working Lenny Rodrigues last season but the latter has since moved on to FC Goa. With the departure of Toni Dovale as well, that leaves Paartalu as the main experienced central midfielder in the squad.

What makes the 32-year-old indispensable is his ability to slot into defence. He has either deputised at centre-back when players were rested or suspended. He has also played as a third centre-back when Bengaluru play with a back-three.

"I've played there (centre-back) a few times in my career. It's a different position for me but it's something I enjoy. To be out there on the pitch I'll play anywhere." - Erik Paartalu

Last season, Paartalu made 51 tackles and 16 interceptions in 18 matches. He also made 34 clearances and 26 blocks. He was also quite disciplined, going into the referee's book only twice during the entire campaign.

But arguably his most important contributions came when he found the back of the net three times - thanks again to set-pieces. Paartalu also had two assists to his name.