ISL 2017/18: Kerala Blasters rule injured Iain Hume out for rest of the season ahead of ATK clash

What's the story?

Kerala Blasters received a major blow to their efforts to make it to the semifinals of the ISL, after their star striker Iain Hume suffered an injury in their last match against FC Pune City on Friday.

Hume, who has been instrumental for the struggling Kerala Blasters so far, has scored four goals in the league for them.

In case you didn't know...

Kerala Blasters have resurrected their current campaign in the Indian Super League under new manager David James, who took over from former boss Rene Meulensteen last month. However, it has been an uphill task for James and his support staff this season, as the Blasters have been on lukewarm form.

Heart of the matter

Hume, who is the all-time highest scorer in the ISL, has already played the final twice, once with Kerala, and the second time with Atletico de Kolkata (now ATK). He has only been able to win it on one occasion though -- last season with ATK.

Now, while he was vying for a fourth straight appearance in the semifinals of the ISL, Hume has suffered an injury that threatens to rule him out for the rest of the season, Kerala Blasters confirmed via their official twitter handle.

Warriors don't stay down, they get back up with more vigour.Let's wish a speedy recovery to @Humey_7 who is likely to miss the rest of the season because of the injury he picked up against @FCPuneCity #KeralaBlasters #NammudeSwantham #LetsFootball #HeroISL pic.twitter.com/RBMbvlDLrR

— Kerala Blasters FC (@KeralaBlasters) February 8, 2018

Hume himself also posted an emotional tweet after the confirmation of the injury, saying that he will be back after he recovers.

This is a tough one to take! From something so innocuous as well! Devastated to be out, but believe me when I say, I WILL BE BACK STRONGER, FITTER & WITH A VENGEANCE! Will keep you all posted with my recovery! I’m gonna be a different animal when I’m back!#WeAreBlasters 💪🏼🤕 https://t.co/xYOIILgxh0

— Iain Hume (@Humey_7) February 8, 2018

Meanwhile, his fellow Kerala forward CK Vineeth all the best with regards to his recovery.

Matchday in Kolkata today and I'm wishing my main man @Humey_7 the best on his recovery from an unfortunate injury. See you on the pitch soon, brother! #KOLKER pic.twitter.com/sF0A73K10r

— CK Vineeth (@ckvineeth) February 8, 2018

What's next?

Kerala Blasters are now all set to face off against old foes ATK, who had defeated them in both the 2014 and the 2016 ISL finals. With Hume being ruled out due to injury, manager James will be looking at other options to present a string strike force up front.

Author's take

Hume has been an instrumental part of the Kerala side, and his absence could affect them both tactically and morally. It remains to be seen whether the Blasters would go looking for a replacement for the Canadian striker, as the Indian transfer window is open until February 15.