Mumbai lead the way by creating “away section”
Yes, you did read that right. Something that is considered common sense across Europe from a certain level up and even happens in the I-League has just come into play in the ISL. Mumbai City have become the first ISL club to give away fans their own section in the ground. Cynics are suggesting it is a pointless move as not many away fans are expected to travel to Mumbai to watch their team but the gesture is far greater than that. By offering the fans the opportunity to watch the game together, away from all the usual home team fan taunts should make it a better experience and could even encourage more away travel. Now Mumbai have gone first, it remains to be seen who will follow.
Teen sensation to join ATK
One of the brightest young Indian prospects is all set to sign for Teddy Sheringham’s struggling ATK. Komal Thatal is believed to have agreed a deal in Kolkata and will be unveiled in the next few days. I-League side Indian Arrows were thought to have snapped up the young winger but he has since decided he wants to play in the ISL.
Reigning champions sign ex-Premier League star
With Carl Baker suffering with a long-term injury, reigning champions ATK have moved to sign ex-Newcastle United player Ryan Taylor. Taylor is now 33 and is capable of playing anywhere in defence or midfield, giving Sheringham another valuable foreign player to choose from. When announced, Taylor said
“I am very excited to play for ATK. I know ATK has a huge fan following who share a high level of passion for their team. I will give my best, for the team and we will get back to winning ways”.
ISL schedule rejigged as Bengaluru commence AFC Cup campaign
Last season’s Federation Cup winners Bengaluru have been drawn against Bhutan’s Transport United in a two-legged round to be played on Jan 23 and 30 of 2018. This means that their trip to Chennaiyin scheduled for Jan 31 will be moved.
New Year Eve’s game WILL go ahead
Kerala Blaster’s match with Bengaluru FC on Dec 31 will go ahead, after fears that police might request that it is postponed due to the amount of people in the city for New Year celebrations.
Sheringham gets away to watch son in action
Teddy Sheringham is having a tough start to life in the ISL and chose to get away from it all this week by heading to Bangladesh to watch his son, Charlie, play for Saif Sporting Club. Charlie didn’t manage to score for his Dad, but Sheringham Sr was full of praise for his son when talking to reporters, praising for him taking a risk in moving thousands of miles away from home just to get a game.
