The Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18’s league phase is done and dusted with; as Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, FC Goa and FC Pune City sealed semi-final berths. That being said, there were a number of players who caught the eye, but unfortunately could not inspire their teams to a spot in the semi-finals. While these players won’t be seen in any further action this season, it’s safe to say that they deserve a mention for their consistent and influential performances throughout. Here we have a look at the best eleven from the teams that did not qualify beyond the league phase.

Goalkeeper: Subrata Paul (Jamshedpur FC)

Jamshedpur FC agonizingly missed qualifying and were in contention till the last match day. They owe a large part of their success to Indian spider-man Subrata Paul. The 31-year-old kept seven clean sheets, which is the most so far, and is one of the main reasons for Jamshedpur building their reputation of being one of the meanest defences. His sending off in his team’s last match against FC Goa cost them as they went on to lose 3 – 0 and were knocked out of contention for the semi-finals.

Left-back: Lalruatthara (Kerala Blasters FC)

The 23-year-old has shown much promise in defence and was effective with his surging runs down the flanks as well as his solidity at the back. Quick and strong, Lalruatthara made a number of key tackles and interceptions in each game. He’s one for the future for both club and country and managed an impressive 85 tackles in Hero ISL 2017-18.

Centre-back: Lucian Goian (Mumbai City FC)

The Romanian had another impressive season where he was rock solid in Mumbai’s backline. Though the club could not reach the semi-finals, Goian always held his ground while facing opposition attacks. A key target from set-pieces, he also managed to score a couple of goals and was a commanding presence in Mumbai’s penalty box, hardly ever putting a foot wrong.

Centre-back: Tiri (Jamshedpur FC)

An inspirational presence in Jamshedpur’s almost impregnable defence, Tiri was always in the thick of things. The Spaniard marshalled his troops well and was always present to see off the slightest of dangers. He also managed a goal and used his lanky frame to win numerous aerial duels. A difficult customer to outwit, Tiri’s was a rock at the heart of Jamshedpur’s defence and helped his team’s cause immensely.

Right-back: Prabir Das (ATK)

ATK had a woeful season as defending champions, but 24-year-old Prabir Das deserves credit for his tireless performances. He charged forward on the flanks with gusto, while tracking back all the while to keep at bay opposition attackers. A no-nonsense defender, Prabir was never shy to put in key tackles for his team and also deliver quality crosses into the box.

Left-winger: Lallianzuala Chhangte (Delhi Dynamos FC)

The pacey 20-year-old was a revelation in the league this season. His quick bursts, combined with the ability to pick out key passes while also getting into the opposition box helped Delhi’s attack to a great extent. Chhangte showed good dribbling ability and bagged three goals as well as three assists.

Midfielder: Courage Pekuson (Kerala Blasters FC)

The Ghanaian was a powerful influence in Kerala’s midfield and his pacey runs down the middle combined with his strength to hold off defenders made him one of the most effective players in the league. Pekuson possessed a good eye for picking out key passes and frequently surged forward to test the opposition keepers. He scored once and assisted five goals this season.

Midfielder: Achille Emana (Mumbai City FC)

Another player who was a strong presence in midfield for his team was Mumbai’s Achille Emana. He showed impressive work-rate on a consistent basis and the Cameroonian also used his pace and strength to good effect, as opposition defenders faced a tough time containing him. He managed to score thrice and notched up four assists over the course of Hero ISL 2017-18.

Right-winger: Seiminlen Doungel (NorthEast United FC)

One of the few bright spots in the Highlanders’ otherwise underwhelming campaign, Doungel made a mark with his skilful football and burst of speed on the flanks. The 24-year-old remains the only Indian to have scored a hat-trick this season, and managed four goals overall, while also picking up an assist.

Forward: Kalu Uche (Delhi Dynamos FC)

The Lions ended their season strongly and the Nigerian is perhaps one of the biggest misses in the semis. Uche took time to settle in, but once he did, there was no stopping him. He scored almost at will and took it upon himself to tear apart the opposition with his goal-poaching skills and strength up front. Delhi’s captain scored an impressive 13 goals and bagged a couple of assists as Delhi were left to wonder what the outcome might have been had they shown similar form from the start of the season.

Forward: Balwant Singh (Mumbai City FC)

The 31-year-old was the focal point of the Islanders’ attack and he played his part to a tee. Always chipping in with important strikes, Balwant kept the opposition defence on its toes. A strong and an opportunistic forward, he netted six goals and provided an assist.

HEAD COACH: Steve Coppell

Coppell’s game-plan in Hero ISL 2017-18 paid dividends for his Jamshedpur side as they covered all areas of the pitch and were especially resolute while defending. The Englishman’s team selection and formation worked more often than not, and it was only a series of unfortunate incidents that prevented them from qualifying for the semis in their debut season. However, Coppell has earned respect for possessing one of the best brains in the game having previously led Kerala to the final last season.