Sahal is having a dream season, having scored six goals and registered one assist in 21 appearances so far.
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Kerala Blasters FC midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad remains a major doubt for the Indian Super League (ISL) final against Hyderabad FC on Sunday. The 24-year-old missed the semi-final second leg clash against Jamshedpur FC because he felt discomfort in his hamstring during the Practice session on the eve of the match and was advised to take rest by the medical team. He played a key role in the Yellow Army’s stunning run to the final.
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Good morning Kerala
How did you sleep?
How do you feel this morning? @KeralaBlasters @kbfc_manjappadaOne more step to go… Stay humble and focused
Together as a team… We can do it!
???#YennumYellow #Manjappada #KoodeyundManjappada pic.twitter.com/vwMDN1enW3— Ivan Vukomanovic (@ivanvuko19) March 16, 2022
Sahal is having a dream season, scored six goals and registered one assist in 21 appearances so far. ATK Mohun Bagan’s Liston Colaco (8) is the only other Indian player to have scored more goals than Sahal in the season so far. Sahal scored the decisive goal against Jamshedpur FC in the semi-final first leg tie.
Kerala Blasters secured a 2-1 aggregate win over Jamshedpur FC to qualify for the title decider, for the first time in six years. The Kochi based team displayed a defensive masterclass to get the better of the ISL Shield winners.
Sahal has been a pivotal part of Ivan Vukomanovic’s plans. He mostly operates down the right flank and is part of the fab-four consisting of Adrian Luna, Alvaro Vazquez and Jore Diaz. The boy from Kannur has worked his socks off in every game he has played this season. Apart from his flair and street football like skills, the Indian international works his socks off and is also not hesitant to get back and defend for the team.
Born and brought up in UAE, Sahal’s flair has mesmerised Indian football fans, but the footballer has not always been able to live up to expectations. “If I say I have a few favourite players, he (Sahal) would be one of them,” Indian football team coach Igor Stimac told reporters early this week.
“He’s one of the players who everyone loves to watch. Finally, he’s having a great season. Sahal’s understanding with the foreign players is amazing. It’s great to see him scoring and assisting goals. It’s also wonderful for us, the national team.”
Nishu Kumar or Rahul KP is likely replace Sahal, if he fails to recover before the final.
