Top three clubs that should target Ishan Pandita

The 24-year-old has departed Jamshedpur FC after two seasons at the club.

A striker’s position is one of the most demanding roles in football. The player is not only burdened with obligation to get on the scoresheet, but he also needs to make timely runs, and get into the right spaces. For long, India haven’t felt the void of a world-class player in the pivotal position, due to the constant exploits of Sunil Chhetri, but when discussing the successor of Sunil, Ishan Pandita’s name emerges quite often.

The 24-year-old holds the ability to become India’s main man upfront and has proved himself time and again. But recently, lack of gametime and injury issues have hindered Ishan’s confidence, as the player looks to regain his form, and once again get on the forefront.

Despite this dip in form, Ishan’s top-notch attacking abilities, and poacher instincts are not to be undermined, as the player can cause damage to any defence. Also, Ishan’s departure from Jamshedpur now gives clubs in the Indian top flight the perfect opportunity to bolster their Indian roster, ahead of the start of the club season.

With that said, let us now take a look at three clubs, which should try and rope in Ishan Pandita this summer.

NorthEast United FC

NorthEast United FC have begun their traditional revamp ahead of the start of a new season. As many as 13 players have departed from the club in the last three weeks, as now they shift their attention to getting new players, and Ishan Pandita could very well be one of them. 

The Highlanders have always lacked quality in their Indian contingent, and it's time that changes. Ishan can offer Northeast a lot more prowess in the attack, and can prove to be a crucial figure for Northeast. Also, Ishan can build a decent Spanish connection with NorthEast’s head coach Juan Pedro Benali, who with his experience, can help Ishaan find his footing once again.

East Bengal FC

After a disappointing first two seasons in the ISL, East Bengal are determined to make a difference this time around, and are already showing clear signs of progress. The club has penned a deal with the Spanish head coach Carles Cuadrat, who is already a famed figure in the ISL. 

With Ishan’s inclusion, East Bengal can facilitate Carles’ style of play, and can make things interesting for them in attack. Carles, who often relies on his attackers dropping deep and helping the team in the build up play, can very well benefit from Ishan’s passing and dribbling abilities. Also, the player’s eye for finding the right spaces at the right time in the final third can make a lot of difference in this East Bengal contingent.

FC Goa

Given the poor results that FC Goa had, it is no surprise that the Gaurs are undergoing a major revamp ahead of the new season. The Orange Brigade have already roped in quite a number of Indian talents, but are still in need of a talented Indian striker.

Thankfully, the Goans won’t have to look too far in their quest, as their former player Ishan Pandita is available in the market. 

Ishan’s skillful play, and quality finishing, can be a positive addition to Manola Marquez’s side, and it is very much possible to witness Ishan’s homecoming at the Fatorda next season.