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Match 45 of ISL 2017/18 will see NorthEast United take on ATK on Friday. The Highlanders are coming into the game off the back of a superb 2-1 win versus FC Goa, while ATK lost their last match 1-0 against Bengaluru FC.
Given the quality of players on both sides, here's who you should pick for your fantasy team!
Goalkeeper
Rehenesh: Rehenesh produced a superb performance against FC Goa, repeatedly pulling off save after save and helping NorthEast United secure their first win at home. With ATK struggling for goals, Rehenesh has a good chance of keeping a clean sheet.
Defenders
Goncalves: The Portuguese defender has done well so far for NorthEast United, helping them keep two clean sheets so far and leading by example. The experienced defender has also been a threat on the set pieces due to his big frame. He has made the most interceptions by a NorthEast United defender so far.
Prabir Das: The marauding right-back has impressed with his energy to run up and down the pitch. He has been decent defensively - the 24-year old has attempted 17 tackles, the second best by an ATK player. His tally of 10 interceptions is the most by an ATK player. With ATK possessing a strong defensive record, Prabir has a chance to earn clean sheet points.
Jordi Montel: Jordi Montel has done well so far, playing a big role in ATK strong defensive start leading their defence in the 5 matches he has played so far. He has helped ATK build form the back. The 30-year-old has attempted 265 passes and only Conor Thomas has attempted more passes per match for ATK.
Nirmal Chettri: The Bhaicung Bhutia soccer school product has impressed with his rugged defensive performances so far. Nirmal has attempted 30 tackles, the most by a NorthEast United player. His ability to get up and down the flanks means he can also pop up with attacking returns.
Midfielders
Zequinha: The tricky winger has been one of ATK’s brightest player going forward. The Brazilian has attempted the most shots by an ATK player so far, highlighting his attacking potential. With NorthEast United’s defence struggling, Zequinha has a chance to earn attacking points.
Conor Thomas: The Englishman has perhaps been one of the best defensive midfielders of ISL 2017/18. He helps ATK take control of the match through his faultless distribution. The 23-year-old has attempted 510 passes, the most by an ATK player. He has also helped defensively making 17 tackles so far, the second most by an ATK player.
Marcinho: The NorthEast United playmaker was the Highlanders' best player of the campaign and was unsurprisingly the man to break the deadlock for the Highlanders against FC Goa with a quality finish from Danilo’s cross. The Brazilian also provided the assist for NorthEast United’s second goal with a defence-splitting pass. He is a must pick for your teams.
Doungel: Doungel scored his first goal of the campaign with a fine chip over Laxmikant Kattimani. The 24-year-old has impressed with his energy and work rate, he has attempted 17 tackles, the most by a NorthEast United midfielder.
Forwards
Danilo: Danilo assisted NorthEast United’s first goal in the previous game with a quality cross. The Brazilian has attempted 27 shots so far, the third most in ISL 2017/18. The Brazilian is blessed with good movement and also possesses the ability to skip past challenges.
Njazi Kuqi: Kuqi is expected to start due to the injury suffered by Robbie Keane. The 34-year-old has already scored and assisted once this season. He has attempted 11 shots - the second most by an ATK player. NorthEast United’s defensive struggles mean the big striker is a must pick for your teams.
