Kerala Blasters sign up Barisic, Orji
Kerala Blasters have signed striker Andrew Barisic and midfielder Penn Orji to bolster their squad in the inaugural Indian Super League. Both players have prior experience of playing in Indian conditions.
Australia- born Baristic, who is of Croatian descent, started his professional career with the Melbourne Knights. The 28- year- old represented East Bengal briefly last year after leaving Arema Indonesia.
He played for Hong Kong first division league club South China last season, before another stint in India.
Nigerian import Penn has been playing in India since 2009. He made his debut for the now disbanded JCT in 2009 and was part of East Bengal from 2010- 2013.
The 23- year- old played for now relegated Mohammedan Sporting Club in the I- League last season. Blasters, owned by Sachin Tendulkar and PVP Ventures, had already signed seven players from the international central draft pool held on August 21 here, besides roping in marquee player cum manager David James.
“Andrew is a welcome addition to the team, with previous experience in not only India, but different countries and cultures. A regular goal scorer, he will be a crucial member of a very competitive squad,” James said.
“We are delighted to sign them. Their skills and experience will help us bolster our frontline attack,” assistant coach Trevor Morgan stated.