Spanish midfielder Jonathan Vila joins FC Pune City
PUNE: Indian Super League (ISL) club FC Pune City announced signing of the Spanish defensive midfielder Jonathan Vila to add variety to their midfield for the 2018-19 season. The club authorities are of the view that Jonathan will come handy for them to build attacks from the back. “Jonathan is a midfielder who likes to sit in front of the back four. His proficiency in performing defensive duties in midfield and his ability to build attacks from the back will be ideal for us,” FC Pune City CEO Gaurav Modwel was quoted as saying in a media release. Jonathan began his youth career with Celta de Vigo and made his La Liga debut in 2006 including playing the UEFA Cup 2006-07. After a decade long run with Celta, the midfielder was traded to Beitar Jerusalem FC in 2014 and played the Israeli Premier League. In 2017, the Spanish midfielder moved back to Spain to join Recreativo de Huelva. Head coach Miguel Angel Portugal said, “Vila’s work ethic is tremendous and his vast experience in midfield will be vital for our squad.” Jonathan said, “I am turning a new page in my career and this will be my first season in India. Adapting a new culture and lifestyle is a part of this new challenge and I will make sure that I create a positive impact with my game on fans and the club.” (PTI)
India U-16 dedicates win over Cameroon to Kerala flood victims
NEW DELHI: The India U16 team dedicated its 2-1 win over Cameroon to the victims of the devastating Kerala floods.Sitting miles away and competing with more acclaimed nations boasting of strong youth development programmes, the India U16 team was not willing to soak in the euphoria. “Our heart goes out to the people of Kerala. We have been praying for them at every moment and we salute the Indian Army and the rescue workers who are involved in the process,” head coach Bibiano Fernandes said. “Cameroon are a sublime side and it was so satisfying to register a 2-1 victory against them. On behalf of the team, I would want to dedicate this victory over Cameroon to all the people of Kerala. This victory is more for you than anyone else,” he added. (PTI)