Defenders
Centre-backs – Ivan Bukenya and Arnab Mondal
Ivan Bukenya and Arnab Mondal will be marshalling the defence for East Bengal. The towering Ugandan, who is one of the tallest players in the league and the Indian, who is one of the best ball-playing defenders in the country, will be key to Morgan’s plans.
The Australian was on the lookout for a replacement for the legendary Uga Okpara, and in Bukenya, he may have finally found the answer. Although neither of them are fit and are unlikely to start the first match against Aizawl FC, it is almost certain that we will see this combination for most parts of the season.
Anwar Ali and Gurwinder Singh are also excellent backup options for them.
Full-backs – Robert Lalthlamuana and Robin Gurung
Robert Lalthlamuana and Robin Gurung are East Bengal’s first choice fullbacks, with the former captaining the side this season. Robert has a huge reputation as a marauding left-back with a deadly left foot, while Robin came to the forefront while playing for NorthEast United in the ISL.
Robert is unlikely to start against Aizawl and so Narayan Das may take his place. Robin is fit and will look to showcase his mettle on the right-hand side and earn a call-up to Constantine’s national team.
