Top goalkeepers to keep an eye on in the ISL 2023-24 season
In the Indian Super League (ISL), goalkeepers often play a pivotal role in their team’s success. While they may not always steal the limelight, their contributions are vital as they serve as the last line of defense and the first point of attack. In modern football, goalkeepers are expected to do much more than just make saves; they are also required to initiate attacks and participate in the build-up play.
As the ISL continues to evolve, the league is fortunate to have a talented group of goalkeepers who can excel in both shot-stopping and distribution. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the goalkeepers to watch out for in the upcoming ISL season.
1. Vishal Kaith
Vishal Kaith made a significant impact in the 2022-23 season after joining Mohun Bagan SG. He quickly became a fan favorite among the Mariners faithful. Kaith recorded the second-highest number of saves in the league and kept an impressive 12 clean sheets, earning him the ISL Golden Glove award. His exceptional performance played a crucial role in Mohun Bagan SG’s triumph in the ISL Cup. With Mohun Bagan SG known for having one of the league’s strongest defenses, Kaith’s shot-stopping skills will be vital for the team in the upcoming season.
Fantasy potential: Kaith, as a first-choice starter for his team, is expected to accumulate numerous saves, making him a valuable pick for your fantasy team.
2. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu was the standout goalkeeper last season, leading the charts with the highest number of saves (71) across 24 games. He also shared the second-highest tally of seven clean sheets with Gurmeet Singh of Hyderabad FC and Phurba Lachenpa of Mumbai City FC. Gurpreet played a crucial role in Bengaluru FC’s remarkable turnaround to reach the ISL final.
Fantasy potential: With Bengaluru FC known for their solid defense, Gurpreet Sandhu could be an excellent addition to your fantasy team.
3. Amrinder Singh
Amrinder Singh may have kept only two clean sheets for Odisha FC last season, but his presence between the sticks was invaluable. He made 55 saves in 21 games and was instrumental in Odisha FC’s journey to their first-ever ISL playoffs. Singh is not only proficient with his shot-stopping abilities but also capable of delivering accurate long balls when required. He was the sole goalkeeper last season to provide an assist.
Fantasy potential: Amrinder Singh offers both experience and save potential, making him a valuable fantasy asset.
4. Phurba Lachenpa
Phurba Lachenpa emerged as the first-choice goalkeeper for Mumbai City FC last season, playing every minute. He registered 64 saves, the third-highest among goalkeepers, and kept a total of seven clean sheets. Lachenpa’s consistency will be crucial for Mumbai City FC as they aim to build on their previous season’s success.
Fantasy potential: Selecting Phurba Lachenpa for your fantasy team could be a wise choice, especially if you want to cover the Mumbai City FC defense.
5. Prabhsukhan Gill
Prabhsukhan Gill had a breakthrough season during the 2021-22 ISL campaign when he won the Golden Glove award. However, he couldn’t replicate his heroics last season. Gill will now aim to prove himself again after joining East Bengal FC under coach Carles Cuadrat, with whom he had previously worked at Bengaluru FC. The young Punjab-born goalkeeper displayed his potential in the recent Durand Cup, helping East Bengal FC qualify for the final. He will be eager to continue his good form in the upcoming ISL season.
Fantasy potential: Gill’s ability to earn save points could significantly benefit your fantasy team, and the possibility of a clean sheet would be an added bonus.
In conclusion, the ISL features a crop of talented goalkeepers who are more than capable of influencing the outcomes of matches with their shot-stopping abilities and distribution skills. As the league continues to evolve, these goalkeepers will play a crucial role in their respective teams’ quests for success in the upcoming ISL season.
As the Indian Super League (ISL) 2022-23 season comes to a close, teams are vying for a berth in the top six. Because the playoff system for ISL 2022-23 is changed this year, six teams will compete instead of the customary four. While teams like Mumbai City FC, Hyderabad FC, and Kerala Blasters FC are certain to qualify due to their outstanding performances, the fifth and sixth slots in the ISL points table are still up for grabs.
The Indian Super League (ISL) season 2022-23 is almost around the corner. Football fans in the country have been excitedly awaiting the commencement of India’s premier league tournament. Last season, Jamshedpur FC won the ISL Shield while Hyderabad FC won the ISL Trophy, upending the competition’s power structure.
There will be many outstanding players on the field in the 2019 ISL season. Goalkeepers, who are critical to their teams’ success, will be among them. In today’s game, the goalie initiates the build-up play and must be skilled with his feet on the ball. They must also be fast to detect any danger behind the defensive line and be prepared to advance to avoid it.
