Mehtab Hossain was the first pick by Kerala Blasters FC © ISLFor the two 28-year-old Bengal stalwarts who have playing professionally in Kolkata for as long as they can remember, not being picked by their home club came as a complete surprise. But Syed Rahim Nabi and Mehtab Hossain, redoubtable players with the national team, are determined to prove their credentials for their new employers in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) and show they are still as good as gold.Nabi was picked by Team Mumbai in the third round while Kerala Blasters FC snapped by Mehtab as their first pick at the ISL’s domestic player draft held in the city.The versatile Nabi, one of the three most expensive players in the draft, was quick to react after being chosen by the Ranbir Kapoor-owned club, “All I’m thinking is about Mumbai now. I’m satisfied with the draft and I look forward to playing in Mumbai.” It will be interesting to see where Mumbai’s yet to be named manager fits Nabi, who like the peerless Jo Paul Ancheri, can play in almost any position in the outfield. In fact, the Football Players Association of India’s player of the year award winner in 2012, has played as striker, winger and side-back for both club and country. But in recent times he’s made himself invaluable as left-back, especially with his attacking forays and his ability to score. Nabi admits preference for the position now and should be distinguish himself in better company. Kolkata’s loss will be Mumbai’s gain!“I always try to give my 100 per cent in any match I play. I do not play the percentage game. This is not quite my style. I always go all out."Mehtab Hossain, Kerala Blasters FCHard tackling defensive midfielder Mehtab Hossain has also accepted his fate sportingly. “I had no idea that after playing for so many years in Kolkata I would be going to Kochi. But this is part of life. Professional players are used to plying their trade anywhere. I came here mentally prepared to play for any team that picked me, so I’m very happy to be picked by Kerala,” he stated.Mehtab is happy to be reunited with Trevor Morgan, his former mentor at East Bengal, whose man management skills are highly rated. Known as the ‘Claude Maklele of India’ after the Frenchman who became a role model in the defensive midfield position, Mehtab explained how he was slotted there: “It was Philippe de Rider (former East Bengal coach) who first played me in this position. Then Morgan Sir continued me there. Now Armando Colaco has come (to East Bengal) and he plays 4-4-2 so I will have to adjust to his system as well. He wants me to attack and also score goals. So I must be prepared to play in at least two types of systems, here and there.”Since Morgan has picked several players who were earlier with him at East Bengal, the adaption process on the pitch may not be that difficult. Off it, the local language way seem daunting but Mehtab could well pick that up too!But one thing is certain, the fearsome tackler will give his all on the pitch, no matter for the region he is representing. “I always try to give my 100 per cent in any match I play. I do not play the percentage game. This is not quite my style. I always go all out,” he declared. Kerala will certainly benefit by his exemplary commitment.
