Indian-origin Dilan Markanday signs for EFL League Two side Chesterfield FC

Dilan Markanday is a product of Tottenham Hotspur’s youth academy.

Indian-origin winger Dilan Markanday has penned a three-year deal with EFL League Two side Chesterfield FC, marking a significant chapter in his professional career. Born in Barnet, England, Markanday has consistently drawn attention for his pace, flair, and technical prowess on the right wing.

A product of the famed Tottenham Hotspur Academy, 23-year-old Dilan Markanday made his senior debut for Spurs in a UEFA Europa Conference League clash back in 2021, before moving to Blackburn Rovers in search of regular first-team opportunities.

After gaining valuable experience through loan stints at Aberdeen, Leyton Orient, and Chesterfield—where Dilan Markanday impressed with seven goals in 24 appearances—Markanday has now opted to join the Spireites permanently.

Dilan Markanday’s most recent spell at Leyton Orient in League One saw him net three goals in 17 outings, underlining his ability to adapt and thrive across different levels of English football. With 55 EFL appearances under his belt, the left-footed attacker has notched nine goals and four assists so far.

President Kalyan Chaubey hopeful of OCI players donning national team jersey soon

Indian-origin players may soon get the long-awaited opportunity to don the Blue Tigers jersey, as the All India Football Federation (AIFF) actively pushes for the inclusion of Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) in the national team setup.

Amidst India’s disappointing run of form following back-to-back defeats to Thailand and Hong Kong, AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey addressed the media and reignited the discussion around this long-debated topic.

Chaubey revealed that the federation is currently in touch with 33 players of Indian origin who are eligible for OCI cards. “Some of them have already received the cards, while others are in the process,” he said, adding that the AIFF is providing full support wherever needed.

Also Read: Top five talking points from AIFF press conference on 13 June 2025

While the footballing community in India remain affirmed to the idea of OCIs and PIOs, Chaubey added to it a compelling case by pointing to the success stories of lower-ranked nations that have benefited from the inclusion of dual-nationality or naturalised players.

He stressed that while the AIFF is eager to follow a similar path, any progress is contingent on government clearance. “We are doing everything within our constitutional framework, but unless the administration gives us the go-ahead, we cannot proceed,” he stated.

If approved, the move could provide Indian football with a significant talent boost and much-needed depth—especially as the team struggles to compete at the continental level.

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