Merdeka Cup 2023: Top four new inclusions in India squad

For the first time since 2001, the Indian football team will compete in the Merdeka Cup.

Igor Stimac, head coach of the Senior Men's National Team, released a list of 26 potential players for the Merdeka Cup 2023, which will take place in Malaysia from October 13-17. However, the event is returning after a 10-year layoff. The last time it was contested was in 2013. India has participated in 17 of the 41 iterations of the Merdeka Cup, with their most recent appearance occurring in 2001.

On October 13, India will face host Malaysia in the second semi-final. The first semi-final on the same day will feature a match between Tajikistan and Palestine. The date of the final, as well as the third-place match between the two losing semi-finalists, has been set for October 17.

The final 23 players that will travel to Malaysia will be unveiled in the second week of October. However, here we'll look at the four top inclusions in this squad.

4. Lalchungnunga

The youthful versatile defender Lalchungnunga has been called up to the Indian national squad after having a fantastic breakout year with East Bengal in the ISL. He was also added to the Hangzhou Asian Games roaster and played for the Blue Tigers in China but unfortunatley they went down against the strong Saudi Arabia side in the Round of 16.

The vibrant defender has always been a vital component of the East Bengal side since 2022, and hence Lalchungnunga will undoubtedly be a significant addition to the Indian football team's defensive line for the upcoming Merdeka Cup.

3. Naorem Roshan Singh

The 23-year-old is a threat on the left flank. And that's not only for his marauding runs but also because of his excellent set-piece delivery. Roshan has assisted seven goals and scored one goal himself in the ISL.

For Bengaluru FC, he has been one of the most promising creative outlets. The young player also showed off his defensive prowess by making nearly four tackles, two clearances and an equal amount of blocks each game. Naorem is perhaps one of the best call-ups ever.

2. Vikram Partap Singh

The 21-year-old forward, who had already earned the faith of Des Buckingham, was instrumental in Mumbai City's ISL League Shield-winning campaign last season. Vikram, who can play on the wings as well as in a central role if needed, scored five goals in the 2022-23 season.

Before being called up for the senior team, Singh has created impressions for the Indian national team in the U-16, U-17, and U-20 levels, playing a major role in India's remarkable performance at the 2018 AFC U-16 Championship. He'll surely be a magical super sub if not a starter!

1. Vishal Kaith

Kaith joined Mohun Bagan prior to the 2022-23 season and instantly won over Mariners' faithful. He established a record with 12 clean sheets and the second-most saves overall, earning him the ISL Golden Glove award. Vishal Kaith's stellar season was capped with Mohun Bagan's ISL Trophy win. His shot-stopping ability will be crucial for the Indian team in the upcoming Merdeka Cup.

Vishal Kaith however, was also a member of the Indian side in the SAFF Championship 2018 and now after being recalled to the senior team, he has a tougher challenge to face.