The Indian Super League (ISL) has been known for its prolific scorers and big-name signings and it’s easy for the spotlight to fall on those making the headlines. But football is a team game and often, it’s the quieter contributors who play the most consistent roles in shaping a club’s season.

These are players whose impact may not always reflect in highlight reels but whose importance to their teams has been undeniable. These are names that head coaches trust, teammates rely on and fans come to appreciate over time.

Here’s a look at ten players (in no particular order) who have consistently delivered, season after season, with minimal fuss but maximum professionalism.

Jayesh Rane

With three ISL Cup titles to his name, one with Chennaiyin FC, one with ATK FC and one with Mumbai City FC, Jayesh Rane is among the most decorated Indian players in league history. Having also represented Bengaluru FC, his versatility as both a central and attacking midfielder has made him an asset for every side he’s played for.

Rane’s intelligence in possession, ability to link play and calmness under pressure often go unnoticed, but his consistency in high-pressure games speaks volumes. Whether starting or coming off the bench, he has always offered reliability and calmness beyond the numbers.

Lenny Rodrigues

A veteran of the ISL, Lenny Rodrigues has been part of the league since its inception. With over 150 appearances, he has donned the jerseys of FC Pune City, Bengaluru FC, FC Goa, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Odisha FC and Hyderabad FC. His longevity is a testament to his deep understanding of the game.

Rodrigues’ passing range, awareness and composure on the ball have often provided structure and control in midfield. He lifted the Shield with FC Goa in 2019-20 and went on to win the ISL Cup with MBSG in 2022-23. It’s been a fitting reward for a player who’s been among the league’s most reliable performers.

Mandar Rao Dessai

Dessai has transitioned seamlessly from a winger to a full-back over the years, but his dependability has remained constant. With more than 150 appearances, he is one of the ISL’s most experienced Indian defenders and has played key roles at FC Goa, Mumbai City FC, East Bengal FC and currently Chennaiyin FC.

Dessai won his first major silverware with FC Goa during the 2019-20 campaign when they secured the Shield. He then became an integral part of Mumbai City FC’s historic Shield and Cup double the following season. He was a winner again in 2022-23 as the Islanders romped to the League Shield in style. A composed presence at the back and a tireless runner going forward, his adaptability and consistency have made him a mainstay.

Jerry Lalrinzuala

Winner of the ISL Emerging Player Award in 2016, Lalrinzuala has quietly built a reputation as one of the most technically sound full-backs in Indian football.

With over 150 appearances, he has featured for Chennaiyin FC, East Bengal FC and Odisha FC.

Despite his smaller frame, he is fearless in defensive duels and confident when progressing the ball from the back. He played a vital role in Chennaiyin’s ISL Cup triumph in 2017-18, and was a regular starter in Odisha FC’s lineup. His discipline, tactical awareness and ability to contribute at both ends make him an invaluable figure on the left flank.

Carl McHugh

A commanding presence in midfield, Carl McHugh has been one of the most effective and disciplined foreign players in the ISL. From his time at ATK FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant to his current role at FC Goa, McHugh has delivered consistently in various midfield roles.

He was part of the ISL Cup-winning side at ATK FC in 2019-20 and once again lifted the ISL Cup with MBSG in 2022-23. Known for his ability to read the game, break up opposition attacks, and distribute the ball cleanly, McHugh has brought structure and leadership wherever he has played.

Harmanjot Khabra

One of the ISL’s most seasoned and versatile players, Harmanjot Khabra has featured for Chennaiyin FC, Bengaluru FC, Kerala Blasters FC, and East Bengal FC, earning admiration at every stop. Whether deployed as a right-back, midfielder or wing-back, Khabra has always brought intensity, work rate and leadership to the pitch.

He played a crucial part in Chennaiyin FC’s and Bengaluru FC’s Cup-winning campaigns and remains a respected figure in Indian football circles. Khabra’s tireless work rate, willingness to do the dirty work and commitment to the badge are qualities that have made him a special player.

Edu Bedia

During his extended stint at FC Goa, Edu Bedia was the heartbeat of the midfield. His passing accuracy, vision and ability to dictate the tempo allowed the Gaurs to implement their possession-heavy style with great effect.

A key part of FC Goa’s Shield-winning squad in 2019-20, Bedia also represented the club in the AFC Champions League, making history in the process and scored their first-ever goal in Asia. His leadership and understanding of the game helped shape one of the most aesthetically pleasing sides the league has seen, even if his contributions often flew under the radar.

Eli Sabia

Eli Sabia built a reputation as one of the ISL’s most reliable centre-backs. Known for his strength, aerial ability and no-nonsense defending, he played a crucial role in Chennaiyin FC’s run to the 2019-20 final and was central to Jamshedpur FC’s Shield-winning campaign in 2021-22, both under head coach Owen Coyle.

His calm demeanour and disciplined approach often allowed others around him to flourish, while his presence in the backline gave his teams the stability they needed. While he may not have received the accolades, Sabia’s impact was evident every time he stepped onto the pitch.

TP Rehenesh

TP Rehenesh has been part of the ISL since its inaugural season and continues to be among the most consistent goalkeepers in the league. Having played for Kerala Blasters FC, NorthEast United FC, Jamshedpur FC and now Mumbai City FC, his career has been a success

He was a standout performer in Jamshedpur FC’s Shield-winning season and he has made his name among the finest goalkeepers in the league.

Rehenesh combines sharp reflexes with good game-reading skills, making him a reliable last line of defence year after year.

Souvik Chakrabarti

With stints at Delhi Dynamos FC, Mumbai City FC, Jamshedpur FC, Hyderabad FC and East Bengal FC, Souvik Chakrabarti has quietly become one of the most trusted Indian midfielders in the ISL. Known for his positional discipline and ability to break up play, he has thrived in the holding role, often doing the unglamorous work that allows others to shine.

His presence has often brought balance and defensive solidity to the midfield. And while he may not be a frequent goalscorer or a headline maker, his value is evident in how seamlessly he fits into different systems and roles.

He was a key figure in Hyderabad FC’s ISL Cup win in 2021-22.