Hero Indian Super League (ISL) side Bengaluru FC, on Friday, confirmed that they have signed attacker Ryan Williams on a one-year deal with a further option to extend. He previously represented A-League side Perth Glory FC during the 2022-23 season, scoring four goals and providing two assists in 24 games.

Williams began his youth career with ECU Joondalup before joining Portsmouth FC in 2010. He began his senior professional career with Fulham FC and was later loaned out to Gillingham, Barnsley and Oxford United. He joined Barnsley on a permanent move in 2015 and after two seasons, he moved to Rotherham United. He made a return to Portsmouth FC in 2019 and then left for Oxford United in 2021.

Williams has represented Australia at Under-20 and Under-23 levels. He earned his first senior cap for the Socceroos in 2019, making his debut in a friendly against South Korea as a substitute. Williams’ twin brother, Aryn has had a taste of Indian football already, having been part of Hero I-League side Neroca FC.

Carl McHugh and Mohun Bagan Super Giant part company

Hero ISL side Mohun Bagan Super Giant on Friday announced the departure of midfielder Carl McHugh, who leaves the Mariners after a three-year stint.

McHugh has been one of MBSG’s most important players in the past few seasons, helping the club reach two Hero ISL finals. During the Hero ISL 2022-23 season, McHugh played 21 games for the Mariners and was instrumental for the side as they emerged winners in their Hero ISL triumph. He contributed three goals and an assist in the Hero ISL last season, which was his most productive campaign.

The midfielder previously represented ATK FC during the Hero ISL 2019-20 season and was part of the side that won the Hero ISL title that season. The following season, McHugh featured regularly for the Mariners as they finished runners-up, supplying two assists. He played 18 games during the Hero ISL 2021-22 season as the Mariners made it to the playoffs. Overall, McHugh has featured in 66 Hero ISL games and is among the most experienced players in the league.

NorthEast United FC add Fredy Chawngthansanga and Shighil Nambrath to their first team

NorthEast United FC announced the addition of two promising Indian footballers, Fredy Chawngthansanga and Shighil Nambrath, to their squad on Thursday. The club's commitment to nurturing and developing young talents is further evident with these strategic signings.

Both players have signed two-year contracts with the Highlanders, marking an exciting new phase in their football journeys. Both Fredy and Shighil Nambrath honed their skills in the youth setup at Bengaluru FC, showcasing their prowess in 2nd Division League matches. Their exceptional performances culminated in a remarkable victory at the 2023 Reliance Foundation Development League National Championship earlier this year. Now, the 20-year-old midfielders are hoping to make their mark in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) while training with the NorthEast United FC first team.

NorthEast United FC Assistant Coach Naushad Moosa, who closely observed the youngsters grow during their time at Bengaluru FC, praised the two signings, saying, "Fredy and Shighil were under my wing for four years and it has been a joy to watch them grow. Their understanding of our football philosophy is commendable. They possess exceptional technical skills and are fully aware of the playing principles of our head coach, Juan Pedro Benali."

Speaking on completing their move to the Highlanders, Shighil, who is from Malappuram, Kerala, said, “I already feel comfortable coming here to Northeast. The club's reputation and passionate fanbase create an incredible atmosphere, and I'm determined to make a positive impact on the field. With the guidance of the coaching staff, I aim to sharpen my skills and contribute to the team's success.”

Mizoram-born Fredy expressed his pride on joining the club stating, “Representing NorthEast United FC fills me with pride, especially as someone from the Northeast region. The club's focus on nurturing young talent aligns perfectly with my aspirations. I'm eager to learn and adapt to the challenges of the Hero ISL, and with the support of the coaching staff, I believe I can make a significant impact on the field.”

NorthEast United FC CEO Mandar Tamhane emphasised the club's vision for nurturing young talent, “The signings of Fredy and Shighil reflect our continued dedication towards youth development. These two talented players join our ranks with the determination to make their mark in the Hero ISL. As a club, we are excited to provide them with the right resources and guidance to excel, as they epitomise our mission of nurturing young talents and creating a bright future for Indian football.”

Related tags:

Mohun Bagan Super GiantBengaluru FCNorthEast United FC Carl Gerard MCHugh