Top five veterans to watch out for in Calcutta Football League 2024

The 2024 Calcutta Football League is currently being contested by 26 teams.

The Calcutta Football League (CFL) is a seven-tier ladder-based football competition in the Indian state of West Bengal. Organized by the Indian Football Association, it is one of the oldest football leagues in Asia and one of the oldest football competitions in the world to be conducted in various parts of Kolkata.

The Calcutta Football League currently consists of a seven-tier pyramid system, with more than 8,500 directly registered players of IFA participating in the Calcutta Football League every year. This makes it one of the biggest leagues in the country.

The CFL has a long and rich history, dating back to 1898. It is a highly competitive league, and teams fight hard for promotion and relegation. Calcutta Football League has produced some of the most famous footballers in India, including Bhaichung Bhutia and Chunni Goswami amongst others.

Here are five of the Calcutta Football League’s seasoned veterans to keep an eye on in the 2024 season.

5. Ujjal Howlader

Ujjal Howlader, a 30-year-old midfielder is a proven talent. Over the years, he has built a diverse career by playing for various clubs, often joining on free transfers. His journey includes multiple stints with Aryan FC, where he had been a significant presence. He also played for BSS Sporting, contributing to their midfield strength. Additionally, he had a notable period with Mohun Bagan, further enriching his experience and versatility as a midfielder.

He previously played for Tollygunge and is currently representing Calcutta Customs FC in the CFL. With a wealth of experience in the Calcutta Football League, he brings a seasoned and skilled presence to the field. His familiarity with the competition and understanding of the game dynamics in the CFL make him a formidable player who consistently delivers strong performances.

Also Read: Top five clubs with most title wins in Calcutta Football League history

4. Raju Gaikwad

A seasoned defender with over 13 years of experience, 33-year-old Raju Gaikwad has become a familiar face in Indian football. His career began with Pailan Arrows in 2010, and since then, he has donned the jerseys of numerous clubs including East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, Mumbai City, Jamshedpur FC, Kerala Blasters, Churchill Brothers and Delhi FC.

He returns to the Calcutta Football League representing Diamond Harbour Football Club, shoring up their backline. Gaikwad brings experience and leadership to a young Diamond Harbour squad. His defensive solidity will be crucial for their CFL title ambitions.

3. Jobby Justin

Jobby Justin, a well-traveled attacker with over a decade of experience, has worn numerous jerseys throughout his career. Starting with East Bengal in 2017, the 30-year-old has bounced between clubs like ATK Mohun Bagan, Chennaiyin FC, and Gokulam Kerala. He has also played for the Indian football team.

He achieved early success in the 2017-2018 season, winning the CFL under coach Khalid Jamil’s guidance at East Bengal. He also had brief stints with Bhawanipore FC and is currently representing Diamond Harbour FC in the CFL.

Also Read: Why no foreigners are playing in Calcutta Football League 2024?

2. Suvam Sen

Suvam Sen, aged 34 is an experienced goalkeeper with over a decade of experience and brings a wealth of knowledge and adaptability to the CFL. Suvam Sen’s career has seen him travel across various clubs in India. He started his professional journey with Guwahati FC, before moving on to Mohammedan Sporting in the I-League 2nd Division.

After a brief stint with Calcutta Customs, Sen earned a shot with Bhawanipore FC, even keeping a clean sheet in an I-League qualifier match. Notably, he also played for East Bengal FC in the 2022-23 season, showcasing his ability to compete at different levels of Indian football.

Previously, he donned the gloves for United Sports Club in the 2023-24 season. He is currently showing his agility and leadership through Classic Customs FC. Throughout his career, Sen has showcased his adaptability, having played for various clubs across the Indian footballing landscape.

1. Shilton Paul

Shilton Paul aged 36 is a veteran goalkeeper with a career spanning over 14 years and has carved a noteworthy path in Indian football. His journey began at Mohun Bagan in the I-League in 2006, where he quickly established himself as a reliable custodian.

His talent didn’t go unnoticed, and the glitz of the Indian Super League (ISL) soon beckoned. Atletico De Kolkata, Chennaiyin FC and Kerala Blasters FC provided him with valuable experience at the ISL. He became an integral part of the team, his agility and shot-stopping skills proving to be crucial assets. His dedication and consistency were rewarded in season three when he played a key role in their historic ISL championship win.

He’s also a seasoned campaigner in the Calcutta Football League, having suited up for Bhawanipore FC earlier. This year, he takes his talents to Rainbow Athletic Club, looking to add another chapter to his illustrious career in the local league.

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