Chennaiyin FC signs goalkeeping duo

Chennaiyin FC have announced the signing of goalkeepers Sanjiban Ghosh from Jamshedpur FC and Nikhil Bernard from Gokulam Kerala FC.

Sanjiban was signed on a two-year deal following the expiry of his contract at Jamshedpur FC and Nikhil was signed on a one-year deal. They will join the experienced Karanjit Singh at goal.

“Joining the ISL champions is a huge achievement for me. I would like to thank the Chennaiyin management for bringing me on board. I’m eagerly looking forward to joining the squad in pre-season and help the club retain the title,” said Sanjiban who made one appearance in the Indian Super League (ISL) last season and was named in the 30-man preliminary squad in

“I am very happy to join Chennaiyin FC. They are a fantastic club with a brilliant coach and management. I am really excited for this next chapter in my career,” said Nikhil who made seven appearances for Gokulam Kerala FC last season in the I-league and Super Cup.

Head Coach John Gregory welcomed the arrivals and reiterated the importance of competition for places in the squad. 

“Sanjiban and Nikhil are solid custodians with very good potential and attitude. It is going to be the biggest season in the club’s history as we are also going to be involved in the AFC Cup so healthy competition is required in each position including the goalkeeping department. I look forward to working with them,” Gregory said.

Sanjiban started his career with local Kolkata club Southern Samity before playing in the I-League for Mumbai FC. The He was also a part of the Delhi Dynamos squad that reached the playoffs in the ISL's second and third editions. The Bengali shot-stopper was in goal for Jamshedpur FC in their penalty shootout victory over Minerva Punjab in the Super Cup.

Bengaluru-born Nikhil started his career with local club HAL, where he played in both the National Football League and I-League. He then had a spell at Shillong’s Royal Wahingdoh. After short stints with Bengaluru FC and Ozone FC, Nikhil joined I-League newcomers Gokulam Kerala FC last season.