Kerala Blasters' Fedor Cernych earns Lithuania NT call-up

Fedor Cernych joined the Kerala side as a replacement for injured Adrian Luna.

Fedor Cernych, the 32-year-old forward for Kerala Blasters, has been called up to the Lithuanian National Team for the UEFA Nations League. Cernych joined Kerala Blasters in January as the replacement for Adrian Luna. The Lithuanian National Team is set to play matches against Gibraltar on March 21st and March 26th. However, his absence from Kerala Blasters could pose a challenge for the team, particularly amidst their current struggles in the Indian Super League (ISL).

The Absence of a Key Player: A Setback for Kerala Blasters Acquisition

Once at the top of the table by the end of 2023, Kerala Blasters are now struggling to secure points and maintain momentum. Their recent 4-3 defeat to Mohun Bagan underscores the challenges they face. Injury setbacks have plagued the team, contributing to their downward spiral. With the playoffs looming, Kerala Blasters are exerting maximum effort to regain their form, making Cernych’s absence a significant setback.

A Midseason Acquisition: Cernych’s Impact on Kerala Blasters

Despite his brief tenure with Kerala Blasters, Cernych contributed one goal, one assist, and six chance creations in his six appearances. Born in Moscow to a Russian family of Lithuanian descent, Cernych’s football journey began at Granitas Vilnius before embarking on a successful professional career. With stints at clubs like Dnepr Mogilev, Jagiellonia Białystok, and Dynamo Moscow, he has accumulated a wealth of experience both domestically and internationally.

Kerala Blasters FC forward Fedor Cernych has been called-up to the Lithuanian NT for UEFA Nations League. 👏🏻🇱🇹 pic.twitter.com/gy1zbvgv6i

— 90ndstoppage (@90ndstoppage) March 13, 2024

Cernych’s International career, which commenced in 2012, has seen him amass 89 caps and 14 goals for Lithuania. His exceptional performances earned him the prestigious title of Lithuanian Footballer of the Year in 2016 and 2017, further solidifying his status as a national icon.

A Glimmer of Hope: Adrian Luna’s Comeback

However, his absence from Kerala Blasters during this crucial period presents a new hurdle for the team to overcome. With the anticipated return of former midfielder Adrian Luna from injury rehabilitation by the end of the month, Blasters remain hopeful of reinforcing their squad and reviving their campaign.

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