INDIAN FOOTBALL

Debjit Majumder or Samik Mitra: Whom will Owen Coyle prefer?

Chennaiyin FC has appointed Scottish tactician Owen Coyle as their head coach for the upcoming season. Coyle has already made some excellent signings, like Jordan Murray and Farukh Choudhary, to strengthen his squad according to the requirements. But to find out his first-choice custodian, Owen Coyle has to choose between Debjit Majumder and Samik Mitra for the upcoming season.

Coyle had a successful stint with the Marina Machans in the 2019–20 season, when Chennaiyin finished as runners-up. Coyle, who possesses a sharp brain and has a good idea about Indian football, is going to play a huge role in Chennaiyin’s upcoming campaign. Chennaiyin management is hopeful to get back to their past glory with their familiar manager, Owen Coyle.

Owen Coyle to decide either Samik Mitra or Debjit Majumder:

Analyzing Chennaiyin’s squad, it’s clear that either Samik Mitra or Debjit Majumder will take over the role of their first-choice goalie. It’s up to Coyle to choose his fortress protector.

Let’s figure out the two Bengali custodians’ recent performance:

Debjit Majumder: Recent ISL Performance:

Last year, under coach Thomas Brdaric, Debjit Majumder was Chennaiyin FC’s first-choice goalie in the first phase of the ISL. Management had full faith in his experience. But Debjit has failed to perform according to his reputation.

Debjit played nine ISL matches last season while conceding 19 goals. Though he kept a clean sheet, he could not provide assurance. Debjit’s poor performance and individual errors spoiled the team’s overall result. So, Debjit was benched after the first phase of the tournament.

But Coyle may rely on Debjit’s vast experience. The veteran goalkeeper has played for various ISL clubs since 2016. He knows how to absorb pressure and perform on big occasions.

Moreover, Debjit is hard-working, very passionate about his game, and has a desire to learn from mistakes. So, if Debjit can rectify his past mistakes, he may be the chosen one.

Samik Mitra: Recent ISL Performance:

Following Debjit’s poor performances, Samik Mitra, a new face, has emerged to protect Chennaiyin’s last line of defense. By using a potential juvenile prospect like Samik, CFC management saw a ray of hope to bolster their last line of defense.

Last year, Samik Mitra played 10 matches for the Marina Machans and kept two clean sheets. In Samik’s performance, there was confidence, assurance, and reliance. Though it was his maiden ISL season, but there was no sign of immaturity or childishness.

So, last year, Samik has made a foundation behind his name with his quality performances. This thing may let him go ahead of Debjit. But, at last, it’s all up to Owen Coyle to find out his ideal custodian.

Even Owen may look at Prateek Kumar Singh, CFC’s latest GK signing, if necessary.

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