ISL 2017-18: Five Indian youngsters to keep an eye on

Khel Now brings you the five Indian emerging talents to watch this ISL season.

The fourth edition of the cash-rich Indian Super League (ISL) is coming in its new, revamped form this time. The ISL in its three editions has been a huge success and with recognition from the Asian Football Confederation, it is well and truly here to stay.

The presence of the ISL has helped groom many young talents by providing them with an opportunity at the highest level. That trend is set to continue this season and even more so. Let's take a look at the five emerging Indian talents to watch out for this campaign.

#Udanta Singh

The flash, Udanta Singh is one of the key figures of the national team and Bengaluru FC. Well known for his blistering pace and ability to dribble past the opponents, Udanta is one of the fastest players in India and is a persistent threat on the flanks.

A player who has worth time and again could be the best partner for talisman Sunil Chhetri and Miku, and it won't be a wonder if we see this Tata Football Academy product running riot in the league.

With BFC since 2014, Udanta has featured in about 40+ matches for the new entrants and is amongst the lethal weapons Albert Roca has at his disposal this time.

#Jerry Lalrinzuala

An exemplary model for the ISL burgeoning youngsters, the AIFF Elite Academy product, Jerry Lalrinzuala is a flourishing star. The 19-year-old Chennaiyin FC left-back has had an incredible journey with the Marina Machans, although his side could not advance to the semi-finals last season.

Khel Now's special on the 5 youngsters who can play defining roles in the Indian Super League 2017-18

Lalrinzuala has established himself as one of the finest young prospects in the league after a breakthrough season last time out and will look to resume his journey with Chennaiyin, this time under John Charles Gregory. After the conclusion of the last campaign, he was loaned to DSK Shivajians and had an incredible journey as he bagged the "Best Emerging Player of I-League award", adding yet another glittering feather to his cap.

ALSO READ: 

Bhaichung Bhutia bats for unified league in heart-to-heart with fans on Khel Now

'Standards are already high and hope we can improve it' - I-league CEO Sunando Dhar

Top 10 Players To Watch Out For In ISL 4

Playing under Stephen Constantine is difficult because he demands a lot from you- Vinit Rai

#Vishal Kaith

Hailing from the state of Himachal Pradesh, the 21-year-old former Shillong Lajong warden is another promising talent in this league. The only player FC Pune City has retained this season, Vishal Kaith is the man to guard their NET. A custodian known for his fast reflexes and shot-stopping skills, he will look to impress for the Stallions this season.

Kaith had a 2-year long stint at Shillong Lajong under experienced tactician Thangboi Singto and the experience he had there is sure to stand the keeper in good stead for this new adventure.

#Germanpreet Singh

Renowned for his accurate passes, Germanpreet was one of the pivotal members of the Minerva Punjab squad in the recent edition of the I-League. This season he could act as the linchpin who orchestrates the play for Chennaiyin in the middle of the park.

 

He had a stint with Dempo SC before joining Minerva Punjab. Quick and composed of the ball at his feet, he could be the unsung hero for the southern outfit this season.

#Lallianzuala Chhangte

[KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS]

Any ardent follower of Indian football won't forget Lallianzuala Chhangte if they remember India's clash against Nepal in the SAFF Cup 2015 finals. A player in his teens, played like as if he was a regular starter for the Blue Tigers. Chhangte's dazzling performance that night won him the title of the 'Next Sunil Chhetri' and his brace helped India edge past Nepal and clinch the SAFF Cup.

Chhangte is a DSK Shivajians academy product and had a pleasant journey with them in the recent I-League season. He was selected along with Jerry Mawihmingthanga to train with the renowned Liverpool FC academy. His experience there has always reinforced his play and Chhangte will be looking to get back to his best with the Delhi Dynamos.