Jamshedpur FC have added two crucial domestic signings ahead of the 2023-24 Indian Super League season. The Men of Steel have signed Thongkhosiem Haokip and Nongdamba Naorem.
Haokip will increase their depth in attack as he is a proper striker who can also play on the flanks. He recently featured for East Bengal last season and was a regular for the Red and Golds. He has signed a one-year contract with the club having scored in the pre-season friendly against NorthEast United.
The 30-year-old is an ISL veteran who has won the trophy and the Super Cup while at Bengaluru FC. Known as Semboi, he has netted nine goals in the league while appearing in 62 matches. He has also notched two assists in the league.
Jamshedpur FC head coach Scott Cooper shared that Haokip brings experience and can work in tandem with Nongdamba Naorem. “Haokip is the kind of player that can bring a lot to our team,” Jamshedpur FC tactician Scott Cooper stated.
“He’s a very strong and experienced striker who has spent several seasons in the ISL and he will bring his know-how to the team. Fans can be excited at the prospect of having both Nongdamba and Haokip working together for the club,” he added.
Jamshedpur FC also added the talented winger Nongdamba Naorem on a three-year deal. He has been very impressive in his recent seasons and therefore he deserved the long-term contact. The youngster was crucial for India in the FIFA U-17 World Cup and then replicated those performances for teams like Kerala Blasters, Minerva Punjab, Mohun Bagan and FC Goa.
Naorem won the I-League with Mohun Bagan and was a part of the Durand Cup winning team this year. He is known for his close control and exceptional dribbling skills preferably on the left flank. He has a good eye for scoring goals and can be lethal for Jamshedpur FC.
“Nongdamba comes to us with a lot of talent”, Cooper said.
“We believe he’s a player for the future who has speed, strength, ability and a great attitude. I think now can be his time to shine after a little bit of bad luck previously. We think he can develop himself and push himself to higher levels,” he concluded.
Jamshedpur FC will start their new ISL campaign on September 25 against East Bengal.
