Matchweek 5 of the Indian Super League (ISL) season produced a series of action-packed matches and Erik Paartalu was tasked with selecting the Team of the Week.

Paartalu has chosen to go with the classic 4-4-2 formation, featuring three players from Kerala Blasters FC and three players from Chennaiyin FC. Additionally, two players from Bengaluru FC have made the cut, along with one player from FC Goa, NorthEast United FC, and Hyderabad FC.

When it comes to the head coach selection, Paartalu has picked Chennaiyin FC's Owen Coyle, who is steadily leading the Marina Machans up the table. The former Bengaluru player has handed the captain's armband to Adrian Luna, who once again proved to be the X-Factor in the Blasters' triumph in Kochi.

Here is Paartalu’s Team of Matchweek 5:

Goalkeeper

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (Bengaluru FC)

The Blues' goalkeeper played a decisive role as they held their opponents to a 0-0 draw at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium. Singh made seven crucial saves to ensure his side kept a clean sheet.

Defenders

Sandeep Singh (Kerala Blasters FC)

Singh took on the right-back position for Paartalu. The defender delivered a solid performance at the back and made some impressive runs forward to support his team's attack. The duel between him and Isak Ralte was a highlight of the match.

Slavko Damjanovic (Bengaluru FC)

The Montenegrin has been a rock at the back for the Blues since he arrived at the club. The centre-back once again played a pivotal role as his side secured their first clean sheet of the season against a high-scoring FC Goa side.

Michel Zabaco (NorthEast United FC)

Zabaco scored a vital equaliser for his team against Jamshedpur FC, giving his side the momentum to initiate a comeback. Even though they didn't maintain a clean sheet, the defender exhibited outstanding leadership in organizing the Highlanders' defence. This marks his second consecutive week in the Team of the Week.

Jay Gupta (FC Goa)

The 22-year-old left-back has been in exceptional form this season. In addition to his defensive duties, he has been a valuable asset to his team's attack, contributing with crosses, and long-range shots, and providing his head during set-pieces. Gupta once again delivered a brilliant performance and came close to scoring for his team on a couple of occasions. However, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, the opponent's goalkeeper, was truly unbeatable that day.

Midfielders

Cristian Battochio (Chennaiyin FC)

Battochio was the standout defensive midfielder of the week. He arguably played his best game in a Chennaiyin FC shirt. The midfielder was the linchpin in the centre of the pitch and worked tirelessly to connect the play between the defence and the attack.

Rafael Crivellaro (Chennaiyin FC)

The Brazilian midfielder delivered a superb performance against Punjab FC, playing a crucial role in his team's resounding victory over the weekend. Crivellaro posed a continuous threat to the Shers, consistently finding and creating spaces for himself to attack. He converted a penalty and also contributed with two assists for additional goals.

Joe Knowles (Hyderabad FC)

The Australian put in an excellent performance against the Islanders. Although his team couldn't secure a win against a ten-man Mumbai City FC side, Knowles played a pivotal role, and it was his cross that deflected off Tiri and found the back of the net for the crucial equalising goal.

Adrian Luna – Captain (Kerala Blasters FC)

It's no surprise that the Uruguayan secured a spot in Paartalu's lineup. The Blasters' captain once more played a pivotal role as they orchestrated a remarkable comeback to secure a victory against the Juggernauts. His persistent runs down the left wing and his pace created numerous problems for Odisha FC. He provided one pre-assist and also scored the winning goal, which was truly excellent.

Forwards

Connor Shields (Chennaiyin FC)

He scored two pivotal goals, and this represented a noteworthy turning point for the Scottish forward during his time at Chennaiyin FC. Initially deployed as a winger, he swiftly transitioned to a different position, seamlessly exchanging roles with Rahim Ali. What truly stood out was his unwavering dedication and work rate on the field.

Dimitri Diamantakos (Kerala Blasters FC)

The Greek player made a significant impact when he entered the game as a substitute against Odisha FC. His contribution was nothing short of remarkable as he managed to score the crucial equalising goal for his team. His cameo appearance against the Juggernauts was a joy to witness.

Head Coach

Owen Coyle (Chennaiyin FC)

Related tags:

2023-2024 Slavko DamjanovicAdrian LunaRafael Schuler CrivellaroSandeep SinghDimitrios DiamantakosErik PaartaluGurpreet Singh Sandhu