Kerala Blasters' Sandeep Singh to undergo surgery for injury

The right-back had been a crucial figure in Ivan Vukomanovic's side.

In what appears to be a significant blow for the Kerala Blasters, their right-back, Sandeep Singh, is ruled out of the remaining season due to a leg injury. He was a vital clog in Ivan Vukomanovic's system and became a regular starter for the Yellow Army, replacing Harmanjot Khabra as the primary right-back.

Kerala Blasters are yet to qualify for the playoffs. The right-back's absence comes as a setback to the team at a time when they are desperately looking for some silverware.

What happened?

As per the statement from Kerala Blasters, it is known that Sandeep Singh suffered a fracture in his ankle in the game against FC Goa. The incident took place at an instant when Sandeep Singh and Saviour Gama of FC Goa collided in the air while trying to head the ball. Initially, Sandeep received an injury on the head and required stitches.

While he is no longer in danger due to the head injury, he suffered a leg injury due to poor landing. While initially appearing as a twisted ankle, proper inspection revealed that he actually suffered from a fracture in his ankle. The following statement from Kerala Blasters conveyed the information.

"Kerala Blasters Football Club can confirm that Sandeep Singh suffered a fracture in his ankle against FC Goa on Sunday and will be undergoing surgery for the same. We wish Sandeep a speedy recovery."

What's next?

One thing that is clear at the moment is that Sandeep Singh will miss the rest of the ISL season due to the injury. Whether he will be available for Super Cup is a question that only time will answer.

For now, his absence will be a cause of worry for Vukomanovic as Kerala Blasters had not lost a single game when Sandeep was in the starting XI. He also scored the solitary goal in the side's victory over Odisha FC at Kochi. These two facts are enough to understand his importance in the team.

It will be interesting to see how Vukomanovic adapts his team and if Kerala Blasters bring in a new right-back during the January window. Pundits will also have interest in observing the performance of Kerala's defence in the remaining matches.