Jamshedpur FC sign India U-19 goalkeeper Niraj Kumar

The youngster was plying his trade in I-League second division.

Jamshedpur FC have signed 16-year-old goalkeeper, Niraj Kumar from Bengaluru-based side Ozone FC. The youngster has penned a deal for a term of three years with the Jharkhand-based side.

At the age of 16, Niraj has made headlines for being a part of the Indian national team junior squad. He had an outstanding AFC U-16 tournament, held in Malaysia last year, with his saves against Iran being the highlight. He has played an extremely important role in Ozone’s Second Dvision campaign, helping them qualify for the final round this season. Niraj is touted as one of the prime contenders to play in the senior national team.

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Currently playing for India U-19s at the Granatkin Memorial International Football Tournament in St. Petersberg; on signing with Jamshedpur FC, Niraj said: “I am extremely ecstatic to take this step in my career. ISL is the leading league of the country and Jamshedpur FC is an incredible team. I am thankful to the management for showing faith in me and I am looking forward to being in Jamshedpur for the pre-season. Playing with my childhood hero Subrata Paul and learning as much as I can from him will be a dream. I cannot wait to meet the fans of Jamshedpur and play at the Furnace.”

Jamshedpur's Chief Executive Officer Mukul Choudhari added, “Niraj is touted to be the next big thing in the goalkeeper’s department hence we are extremely happy to have him in our squad. He has impressed all of us with his technique in front of the sticks and we wish him the best for the upcoming season. Welcome to Jamshedpur, Niraj.”