FC Pune City have announced the signing of full back Ashutosh Mehta for the upcoming season of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL). The defender returns to Pune after a loan spell with the club in 2014.

A homecoming of sorts for @Ashutosh_mehta1 , we are eager to see him play in the FC Pune City colours again 🤩 pic.twitter.com/Qm7JObIamv

— FC Pune City (@FCPuneCity) September 25, 2018

Mehta previously represented ATK during the 2017-18 campaign, making a total of 12 appearances for the side. The defender started his career with Mumbai FC in the Hero I-League, spending five seasons with the club. He made his Hero ISL debut in 2014 while he was on loan with FC Pune City before going on to play for Mumbai City FC during the 2015 campaign, where he made 11 appearances for the club. The highlight of his career, however, came in the 2016-17 season when he played a crucial role in helping Aizawl FC win their maiden Hero I-League title.

The versatile player will prove to be a valuable addition to Miguel Angel Portugal’s side for the 2018-19 campaign. In addition to his defensive abilities, Mehta can also slot in at midfield if required. Alongside Matt Mills and Martin Diaz, the 27-year-old will look to add defensive solidarity to Pune City while also contributing in attack with marauding runs.

Pune City begin their first game of the season with an away trip to Delhi on October 3. To view their full list of fixtures, click here.