ISL 2018-19: FC Pune sign Alwyn George and Nikhil Poojari

Indian professional football club FC Pune City have roped in midfielders Alwyn George and Nikhil Poojari for the upcoming season of Indian Super League (ISL).

Reflecting on the inclusion of two midfielders in the team, FC Pune City CEO Gaurav Modwel hoped that George's technical skills and Poojari's experience would be beneficial for the club.

"Alwyn is one of the more technical players we have in India and we feel he will suit our style of play. His flair for creating chances will bring more creativity in our play," he said.

"Nikhil, on the other hand, is one of the most exciting young players in the country. We have been tracking him for a couple of years now. At a young age, he has already gained a good amount of professional experience and we hope that he settles well in our squad," he added.

George, who started his career with the Tata Football Academy in 2008, signed his first professional contract with Pailan Arrows four years later. It was midfielder's stint at Dempo that caught the eyes of everyone as he was named best young Indian player of the season for two years in a row.

He, later, played in Indian Super League with FC Goa, Delhi Dynamos FC and later Bengaluru FC.

Excited to join the club, George said that it is a great opportunity for him to play for a team which is ambitious and professionally managed at the same time.

Nikhil, on the other hand, started his football career in Mumbai. He joined the youth team of Mumbai FC before being signed by East Bengal in 2015. His pace and fitness levels with East Bengal impressed the national scouts that got him a call for Under 23.

Expressing happiness over joining the club, Poojari said that it is a great opportunity for him and he is looking forward to make the most out it.

It is a homecoming for the players as they both belong to the state of Maharashtra.