Indian Super League Shield winners from last season Jamshedpur FC have announced that they have extended the contract with Brazilian centre back Eli Sabia for another year. The Brazilian who has been in India for many years now have developed a great habit of winning. He has won the ISLtitle with Chennaiyin FC earlier and now in his first year with Jamshedpur FC he helped them secure the Shield.
Sabia who shared a sensational chemistry with club captain Peter Hartley last season is thrilled to join the Men of Steel once again and is looking forward to working with the new head coach Aidy Boothroyd. “I see Jamshedpur as a club and a city with big ambitions. We became Champions of India last season and I come again with the aim of defending this title, bring more glory and breaking more records in front of the packed JRD Tata Sports Complex. Look forward to working with a head coach who is renowned for getting the best out of the players,” Sabia on his emotions after putting pen to paper.
Since his Chennaiyin FC days Eli Sabia has been one of the most no nonsense defenders in the league. His big frame and commanding nature does not make him the best ball player from the back but his shrewd game sense makes up for that. With 66 clearances last season, Sabia was a mountain at the back for the Men of Steel as he really showed great resilience to help his team win the league last time out.
Similarly Boothroyd is also happy with Eli Sabia staying as he feels that he is surely someone who can lead this team and bring in solidity to the backline. “I am happy that Eli has chosen to stay with Jamshedpur Football Club. He is one of the best defenders in the league and has shown his leadership qualities both on and off the pitch. He has the attitude to keep performing and I’m excited to work with him,” the English tactician shared.
He has already five years of ISL experience with Chennaiyin and Jamshedpur and now he is extending it to another year hoping to add more accolades to his trophy cabinet.
Apart from Sabia, the Men of Steel have recently extended terms with young defensive midfielder Jitendra Singh and fullback Ricky Lallawmawma and are looking to keep hold of the core from last season. But with Greg Stewart joining Mumbai City FC, it will be crucial for Boothroyd to replace him in the upcoming season.
