Kerala squad announced for Santosh Trophy 2023; Nijo Gilbert to lead the charge

by Chittu Shetty October 6, 2023

Kerala FA has announced its squad for the upcoming 77th Santosh Trophy National Football Championship, to be led by the experienced midfielder Nijo Gilbert.

As the football fraternity awaits for the the championship’s final round in Arunachal Pradesh, Kerala aims to make a strong statement in the First Round with a blend of seasoned players and some really good promising debutants in the squad

Placed in Group ‘A’ alongside formidable opponents such as Goa, Chhattisgarh, and Jammu and Kashmir, Kerala is set to commence its journey on October 11 against Gujarat in Vasco da Gama, Goa. Eager to rectify last year’s near miss in the semifinals, the seven-time champions are poised for a spirited performance.

Experienced Midfielder Nijo Gilbert has been entrusted with the captain’s armband, with his versatility and experience to guide Kerala’s campaign. The responsibility of the deputy captain falls on the shoulders of the dependable defender Sanju G, creating a formidable leadership duo. Ten players are set to make their Santosh Trophy debut, injecting a youthful energy into the team.

The Squad:

Goalkeepers:

1. K. Muhammed Azhar
2. Sidharth Rajeevan Nair
3. P.P. Muhammed Nishad

Defenders:

1. Belgin Bolster
2. G. Sanju (Vice-captain)
3. R. Shinu
4. Mohammed Salim
5. Nithin Madhu
6. R. Sujith
7. K.P. Sarath

Midfielders:

1. Nijo Gilbert (Captain)
2. V. Arjun
3. G. Jithin
4. N.P. Akbar Sidhique
5. M. Rashid
6. E.K. Rizwan Ali
7. Bijesh Balan
8. Abdhu Raheem

Forwards:

1. E. Sajeesh
2. S. Muhammed Ashiq
3. B. Naresh
4. K. Junain

Coaching and Management Staff:

• Chief Coach: Satheevan Balan
• Assistant Coach: P.K. Assis
• Goalkeeper Coach: Harshal Rahman
• Manager: Sudhir Kumar

With a strategic blend of experience and emerging talent, Kerala’s Santosh Trophy squad, under the guidance of their coaching and management staff, aims to create waves and add another chapter to the state’s rich football legacy.

Check out the Group table, fixtures for Santosh Trophy here: Click here

Also Read: Santosh Trophy group stage to be played from October 8

Also Read: India Khelo Football Season 3 Trials for Mumbai and Thane are here

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