The recently concluded Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 season was one to cherish for football fans across the length and breadth of the nation. The fourth edition of the Hero ISL, which spanned a period of four months, witnessed an astonishing 261 goals in a total of 95 games. Central to this impressive statistic was the goal-scoring exploits of some of the league’s top marksmen. Here, we have a look at the performances of the top strikers from the season gone by and their contribution to their respective teams.

Ferran Corominas – FC Goa

The Golden Boot winner from Hero ISL 2017-18, Ferran Corominas was undoubtedly the most lethal striker in the league. The experienced Spaniard broke several records in his debut Hero ISL campaign, including most goals scored by a player in a single season (18). Corominas also became the first player to score back-to-back hat-tricks in the league. Assisted by the talented Manuel Lanzarote, the Goa forward left opposing defenders in his wake with his pace and intelligent runs down the channels.

Miku – Bengaluru FC

Recruited as the highest paid player in the league, Miku was under huge pressure to deliver the goods for Bengaluru FC. Needless to say, the Venezuelan forward prolifically lived up to the billing by scoring an impressive 15 goals from 20 games. Together with Sunil Chhetri, Bengaluru FC had one of the strongest strike partnerships in the league. His clinical finishing and fine goal-poaching ability were what set him apart from the rest of the forwards in the league.

Sunil Chhetri – Bengaluru FC

The Hero of the League, Sunil Chhetri enjoyed his best season in India’s premier footballing league. The Bengaluru and Indian national team captain scored 14 goals over the course of season, which is the highest return by any Indian player in league history. However, that wasn’t his biggest contribution to the Bengaluru side. His ability to lead his team from the front and turn up for his side when it mattered the most was what made the difference. The Indian legend was unlucky to end up on the losing side of a truly riveting final against Chennaiyin FC, but nevertheless, his performances this season have not gone unrecognised. He also netted his first-ever hat-trick for the Blues in the semi-final and became the only Indian to have scored two hat-tricks in the league.

Manuel Lanzarote – FC Goa

Arguably one of the league’s best players, Manuel Lanzarote was an absolute joy to watch throughout the campaign. The Spanish maestro formed a formidable partnership with countryman Ferran Corominas and the pair were devastating in front of goal. The Gaurs registered the most goals by any team in Hero ISL 2017-18 and it was largely down to the creativity as well as goal-scoring prowess of Lanzarote. The 34-year-old bagged 13 goals and six assists during the entire campaign.

Kalu Uche – Delhi Dynamos

While Delhi Dynamos FC might not have enjoyed the best of seasons in the Hero ISL, captain Kalu Uche was an instrumental figure in the Lions camp. The former Nigerian International enjoyed a prolific season, scoring 13 goals in 15 games, his best return in the league so far. The 35-year-old, who finished as top scorer for Delhi, is known for his strong aerial presence and intelligent off the ball movement. Owing to his fine performances for the Dynamos, ATK have acquired his services.