ATK rope in midfielder Rafique

Defending champions Atletico de Kolkata (ATK) on Wednesday roped in their lucky charm Indian midfielder Mohammed Rafique, who had scored the winner in the last minute to help the outfit clinch the title in the first edition of the Indian Super League (ISL).

Rafique will be replacing Lalchhawnkima in the outfit. He will start practicing with the team from November 5.

"I welcome Rafique to the squad. I feel he will continue to prove his determination to perform in the ongoing tournament alike last season. His recent performances surely have kept him match ready. I look forward to work with him," ATK head coach Antonio Lopez Habas said in a release.

Rafique said: "I am happy to be part of Atletico de Kolkata for the second season. I'm looking forward to play for this brilliant team and put forward my best to fulfil the expectations the team placed in me."

The 23-year-old has recently been in good form. Playing for Kolkata heavyweights East Bengal Club, Rafique scored three goals during his four matches in Sheikh Kamal Gold Cup in Bangladesh. He also scored in the last Calcutta Football League derby against Mohun Bagan.