Top-Five Home Stars of Indian Super League
The inaugural edition of Indian Super League had some big names from international football. Indian players though also showcased their enormous talent.
The Indian Super League was true to its promise of highlighting Indian stars. A lot of earlier known names shined and plenty of new ones too proved their worth. Here is the list of the best five Indians who played in the inaugural edition of the Indian Super League. (Also read: How Atletico de Kolkata beat Kerala Blasters to win ISL final)
5. Baljeet Sahni from Atletico de Kolkata
At number 5 is Atletico de Kolkata's Baljit Sahni. The former JCT Phagwara player scored twice for the champions in 16 appearances this season. The 27 year old from Hoshiarpur is not only a gifted goal scorer but also an effective playmaker.
4. Romeo Fernandes from FC Goa
FC Goa's Romeo Fernandes comes in at number 4. 3 goals from 11 appearances and some glowing reports by his Goa coach Zico has resulted in Atletico Paranaense, a top division club in Brazil showing interest in the 22 year old
3. Arnab Mondal from Atletico de Kolkata
At number 3 is another Atletico de Kolkata player- Arnab Mondal. The 25 year old was definitely one of the most important cog in Kolkata's defence. Add to that, his ability to double up as a midfielder and it's safe to say that this former East Bengal player was one of the main reasons behind Kolkata winning the ISL title
2. TP Rahenesh from Northeast United FC
The 2nd position in this Top 5 list goes to Northeast United FC's goalkeeper Rahenesh TP. Undoubtedly one of the best finds of the 1st season, this 21 year old pulled off some great saves to keep 5 clean sheets for John Abraham's highlanders. The Stopper from Kerala had an amazing save percentage of 78% which was the highest among all Indian keepers. Fittingly Rahenesh was voted as the most promising Indian player in ISL by the fans
1. Sandesh Jhingan from Kerala Blasters FC
Perhaps the only blemish in an otherwise spotless season for Sandesh Jhighan was an own goal in the semifinals against Chennaiyin FC. Apart from that, the Kerala Blasters FC's central defender has been undoubtedly the best Indian player of the tournament. The 21 year old from Chandigarh was also awarded the title of the best emerging player, no wonder clubs from Europe and United States have shown interest in signing him