The Hero India Super League (ISL) 2017-18 is heading towards an exciting finish as far as the league phase is concerned, and the battle for the playoffs is also intensifying. There have been plenty of eye-catching performers thus far, whether it comes to scoring, assisting, defending or a combination of all. We take a look at the top five players of the Hero ISL whose overall contribution for their teams so far has been most noteworthy.

Thiago Santos (Mumbai City FC)

Mumbai City FC’s tireless midfielder Thiago Santos has always been in the thick of things for the Islanders. The Brazilian has initiated attacks with gusto and his quick runs have created problems for all teams. He has built a reputation for being incisive with his finishing and is ever-opportunistic at the slightest of openings. Santos has five goals and an assist so far, and while Mumbai’s chances of making the playoffs do look slightly bleak, he has made a major impact for his side.

Ferran Corominas (FC Goa)

Goa’s Spanish goal-machine needs no introduction. His goal-scoring rate is more than one per match as he has found the net 13 times in his 12 appearances. He has also notched up three assists and forms a dangerous combination with fellow Spaniard Manuel Lanzarote. Although 35 years of age, Corominas has deadly pace and is one of the league’s best finishers. A nightmare for any odd defence, he can carve openings for his team almost at will. He will have a major say in the Gaurs’ charge towards a potential playoff.

Manuel Lanzarote (FC Goa)

With Corominas being the focal point of Goa’s attacks, Manuel Lanzarote, who plays slightly behind his compatriot, is prolific both while scoring and while providing. He initiates most of the attacks, always looking to feed Corominas, while charging into the box whenever he finds an opening. Lanzarote has eight goals and five assists to his name already, and he will look to be as influential with the possibility of the playoffs looming.

Raphael Augusto (Chennaiyin FC)

The southern team’s midfield has been a stable area, and it is largely thanks to their anchor-man Raphael Augusto. The Brazilian has carried forward the charge, while also using his strength to ward off opposition attacks. The 26-year-old loves to go forward and get some shots away but is equally effective when it comes to tracking down and doing his defensive duties. Augusto has two goals and an assist to his name, and he is a key reason for Chennaiyin’s consistency this season.

Marcelinho (FC Pune City)

Last year’s Golden Boot winner is having another fine season where he is scoring and providing with equal fervour. Marcelinho has been a busy man when the Stallions are attacking and has taken it upon himself to tear apart the opposition’s defence. The Brazilian is showing much of the same speed and deadly finishing that earned him a name last season and has bagged six goals and seven assists. Pune has a great opportunity to make the playoffs for the first time in their history, and if they do so, they will have the 30-year-old to thank.

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