NorthEast United extend contract of defender Provat Lakra

The defender has signed his fifth contract renewal at NorthEast United.

Indian Super League (ISL) side NorthEast United FC have retained the services of versatile full-back Provat Lakra. The Kalyani-born defender has put pen to paper to extend his stay with the Highlanders for the fifth season running.

“Provat Lakra has signed a contract renewal with NorthEast United for the upcoming season,” a source close to developments told Khel Now.

Lakra, who joined the Guwahati-based side in 2018 has been a mainstay for them ever since. He has played 36 games in the ISL for the Highlanders and has developed a feeling of belongingness with them.

[KH_ADWORDS type="4" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS]

After signing the contract, Lakra becomes one of the longest-serving players in the club's history. He has played under four coaches in four seasons and has seen it all at NorthEast United.

From their first-ever playoffs appearance to their disastrous run of form last season, Provat has been an eyewitness to NEUFC’s ups and downs. His coaches at NEUFC have often defined him as ‘very hardworking’ and therefore his renewal comes in as a no-brainer.

Provat is a multi-faceted full-back and can play on either flank. His ability to adapt to different circumstances coupled with his never-say-die attitude will surely come in handy for the Highlanders.

His pin-point crossing, ability to test the keeper, and execution of perfectly timed challenges make him a lot more valuable going forward.

[KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News |ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS]

Last Season

The 24-year-old played majority of the games for NorthEast United last season. He racked up 69 tackles, 32 interceptions, 36 clearances, and 23 blocks in 16 matches as NEUFC avoided a last-place finish.

Moreover, he recorded six shots, and 13 crosses while averaging 26.13 passes per game in the season gone by.

NorthEast United FC’s preparations for ISL 2022/23

The Highlanders will surely want to get over their nightmare kind of a season as soon as possible. To begin with they’ve roped in Gaurav Bora from Odisha FC and are also in talks with a few bright prospects from the domestic circuit.

Moreover, the club is now entirely focused on finalizing its head coach. Sources close to developments have told Khel Now that they’ve shortlisted three coaches and are expected to reach an agreement very soon.

For more football updates, follow Khel Now on Twitter, Instagram and join our community on Telegram.