Chennaiyin FC, defending champions of the Hero Indian Super League, have extended Spanish defender Inigo Calderon’s stay at the club for a year. The veteran defender was one of the standout players of Chennaiyin’s title winning-campaign during the 2017-18 season, earning the ‘Fittest Player of the Season’ award.

Calderon was a mainstay in the Chennaiyin FC backline, making a total of 20 appearances and registering three goals in the process. The 36-year-old was especially recognized for his relentless work-rate down the flanks and his hard-tackling on the ball, which was exemplified during Chennaiyin’s 3-2 victory over Bengaluru FC in the 2017-18 season finale.

A warm welcome

On renewing his association with the South Indian side, Calderon expressed his delight. “I am very happy to continue with Chennaiyin FC for one more season. The players, management, owners and most importantly, the city and the unconditional love of the fans made the decision of returning an easy one. We are the champions and I am looking forward to the challenge of defending the title. Hard work lies ahead!”

Winner of the Association of Indian Football Coaches (AIFC) ‘Hero ISL Coach of the Year’ award and head coach of Chennaiyin FC, John Gregory had some warm words for the returning defender, “I am hugely delighted to welcome ‘Caldi’ back. He is a thorough professional and a role model for the entire squad with the way he looks after himself on and off the field. His experience will prove crucial as we look to defend the ISL title. Caldi returning is a great moment for everyone at the club."

Leading from the back

One of the hallmarks of Calderon’s gameplay was his versatility which enabled him to play in any position across the backline. Primarily a right-back, Calderon is just as capable at playing in the centre of defence, evident from the league encounters against Delhi Dynamos and Kerala Blasters during the 2017-18 season. Alongside Henrique Sereno, Calderon was lauded for his leadership abilities both on and off the pitch.

The Spaniard, who completed a total of 100 clearances and 50 tackles during the last campaign, will join the likes of Gregory Nelson and Mailson Alves, who have also signed contract extensions with the club. The defending champions have done well to retain the spine of their squad and will undoubtedly pose a strong threat to the opposition during the 2018-19 campaign.