Hyderabad FC release Kamaljit Singh, Robin Singh and 8 others

The Nizams have made room in their squad following a busy summer of reinforcement.

Hyderabad FC have released several players including the likes of goalkeeper Kamaljit Singh, defenders Gurtej Singh, Abhash Thapa, Keenan Almeida, forward Robin Singh and others from their squad. Notably, Kamaljit and Gurtej had vital roles to play in the franchise’s first season in the Indian Super League.

Kamaljit guarded the posts in 12 matches for Hyderabad FC in the last campaign. His performances were certainly underwhelming, as the 23-year-old conceded a massive 26 goals in those games. Hyderabad’s feeble defensive setup contributed to his dismal outings too, but it is clear that the management is now set to look at better alternatives for that position.

Gurtej Singh has been associated with this setup for a considerable period of time now. That is because, he represented FC Pune City for two seasons from 2017-2019. When the franchise changed base to Hyderabad, he accompanied the squad. Overall, he has played 42 matches in the previous three campaigns and delivered a fairly decent defensive output.

Keenan Almeida had joined Mumbai City FC on a loan spell until the end of the 2019-20 season in the January transfer window. It is yet to be seen whether the Islanders will look to extend the defender’s stay with them. Another significant departure from the club is that of midfielder Rohit Kumar. The 23-year-old had played nine matches for Hyderabad in the last campaign. He scored and assisted a goal each and at times seemed to have been cementing his spot in the first-team.

Shankar Sampingiraj, who made three appearances in the previous term and backup goalkeeper Kunzang Bhutia have also been shown the door by the franchise. Former India international Robin Singh has permanently left Hyderabad FC too. The forward played nine matches for the Nizams, but was sent on loan to Real Kashmir midway through the season. For the I-League side, he started seven matches and notched a solitary goal. Bengaluru FC’s 20-year-old midfielder Ajay Chhetri has been released after his loan stint with Hyderabad. Faheem Ali has followed suit as well.

Hyderabad FC would be looking to commence a new chapter in their existence when Albert Roca takes charge of the team for the 2020-21 ISL season. The franchise looked to be in some financial troubles over non-payment of dues in the last month and the release of multiple players looks to be an attempt to lessen the burden on their payroll.

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