Midfielder Carl McHugh extends stay at ATK Mohun Bagan

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The Irishman will continue for another season after agreeing an extension with the Mariners.

ATK Mohun Bagan have announced that Carl McHugh has agreed to extend his stay with the club for another season. The Indian Super League (ISL) outfit have been making impressive moves in the market lately. The Mariners broke the transfer record in Indian football by signing Hugo Boumous. Now, they have ensured stability in the midfield by extending McHugh’s contract.

The Mariners finished as runners-up in their debut ISL campaign during the 2020-21 season. The outfit narrowly lost both the ISL shield and ISL trophy to Mumbai City FC. McHugh has been a vital part of the team and Antonio Lopez Habas has shown trust on the player.

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Carl McHugh: the relentless worker

McHugh is already an ISL winner with erstwhile ATK, before the Kolkata-based club merged with Mohun Bagan. The Irishman came to India from Scottish Premiership giants Motherwell. The 28-year-old will now play in his third season in Indian football and will look to add another trophy to his resume.

The former Motherwell captain has 27 appearances in the ISL, scoring one goal and registering two assists in the process. His real contribution is seen in winning the ball back and keeping the possession ticking. The midfielder has 128 tackles, 39 interceptions, 62 clearances and 49 blocks so far in the Indian top flight. He averages 36.78 passes per game and uses his physicality to dominate the opposition.

Club’s ambitions

The Mariners are going all out in toppling Mumbai City FC in the upcoming season. They have already signed Hugo Bomous from their ranks for a record fee along with Finland international Joni Kauko. Now, they have protected the defensive third of their squad with McHugh’s extensions.

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He will shield the backline against the opposition attacks and initiate transitions. Carl McHugh is expected to play an even more important role next term with the new rules in play that allow only four foreigners on the pitch.

ATK Mohun Bagan are looking to go a step further next season and clinch their maiden ISL crown. To that end, they have extended the tactician, Habas’ contract as well. Signing players like Amrinder Singh, Hugo Boumous and Bidyananda Singh is a sign of exciting times for Mariners and their fans.

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