ISL: Struggling ATK make several changes to squad

In a desperate bid to steady their ailing ship, two-time Indian Super League (ISL) champions ATK announced on Wednesday that they have parted ways with Njazi Kuqi, Jussi Jaaskelainen and Augustin Fernandes, replacing them with David Cotterill, striker Martin Paterson and former Delhi Dynamos goalkeeper Soram Poirei.

Former Bristol City player Cotterill is a versatile player who has fantastic ability with the ball. Martin Paterson played for Port Vale in England's League One in 2016 and has represented Tampa Bay Rowdies in Major League Soccer (MLS).

Poirei started his career with I-League outfit Shillong Lajong FC and has also played for Bengaluru FC. He turned for Delhi Dynamos in the ISL in 2016.

"It is an honour to play for ATK. Kolkata has hosted the biggest teams and players in the past and has a rich footballing history. To play for the two-time ISL champion is a challenge which I am excited to take on," Cotterill said in a statement.

"I look forward to score goals for ATK and hopefully help the team in qualifying for the play-offs. We all know the pressure that comes for playing for the two -time ISL Champions. I hope to enthral my fans and deliver with my performances," Paterson said.

ATK head coach Teddy Sheringham is confident that the trio will help ATK boost their sagging ISL campaign.

"We are excited to have David, Martin and Soram on board with us. I hope we can integrate them quickly in our squad, so that they can start firing for the rest of the season," the former Manchester United star said.

ATK are currently seventh in the league table with just 12 points from nine games.

--IANS

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