KOCHI: Afghanistan national midfielder Sharif Mukhammad, who had played a key role in Gokulam Kerala’s stunning triumph in the Hero I-League last season, will lead the side in the 2021-2022 season.
Sharif, a player aside from the strife-torn country’s better known cricketers to make a mark with Indian fans, scored four goals from 14 matches and also made 799 passes last season.
The Russian-born Sharif promised Gokulam would continue to play its aggressive style of football. “We have won the I-league and have made the Kerala fans proud,” he said. “We have shown everybody that we can play beautiful football. I know that it won’t be easy to defend titles.”
Gokulam’s coach Vincenzo Alberto Annese said Sharif had exceptional leadership qualities. “His experience in midfield will help the Malabarians scale new heights in the season,” the Italian said.
