Kerala Blasters announce 29-men squad for pre-season preparations

The camp will commence in Kochi, Kerala first before shifting abroad.

Kerala Blasters has announced today that the club will kick-off its pre-season preparations on July 30, ahead of Indian Super League (ISL)'s 2021-22 season.Ivan Vukomanovic, the coaching staff and players will arrive in Kochi to commence the first leg of their preseason. They will then fly abroad to complete the rest of their pre-season training. The month-long training camp will allow the players to complete their vaccinations and medical checks. Afterwards, the focus will turn to physical conditioning. 

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During the pre-season schedule, Vukomanovic will give first-team exposure to at least six reserve players. Four of them hail from Kerala. Apart from Sachin Suresh, Sreekuttan VS, Shahajas Thekkan and Bijoy V, Yoihenba Meitei and Anil Gaonkar are among those in line for playing time during Blasters' pre-season friendlies. 

The squad

“I'm really happy to see our players on-field at the beginning of August. I'm happy that we are able to give the coaching staff a longer period to work with the players, to get to know them, to prepare physical conditions, and to implement main tactical rules," said Karolis Skinkys, the club's Sporting Director.

He further added: "It will be beneficial to begin the training camp now, as all these activities need time. I'm sure players are missing football a lot, we are a young team, players are striving to be the best. Also, good young players from the reserve team will get the chance to be recognized by the first-team coaching staff. I can’t wait to meet everyone in Kochi.”

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“It is very important for the club to have a long preseason ahead of the start of the season. I want the players to be in their best form before they boot up for their first match for the season," said Ivan Vukomanovic.

"Also, it would be helpful for the players as well as the coaching team to find a rapport well ahead of the season. I'm glad that we have long pre-season plans which I'm looking forward to utilizing in the best possible way. I'm excited to come to Kochi and meet all the players," he added.

With foreign recruitment ongoing, newer additions will link up with the squad, as and when they’re signed.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, all the players and coaching staff will be following protocol strictly. They will abide by all the safety precautions without any lapses.

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