Indian international Nishu Kumar has joined Kerala Blasters FC on a four-year deal ahead of the seventh edition of the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL), the Kochi-based club confirmed on Wednesday. The 22-year-old is considered one of the most talented full-backs in the country and made 45 Hero ISL appearances for Bengaluru FC, winning the 2018 Hero Super Cup and the 2018-19 Hero ISL title with the Blues prior to his move to Kerala.

“In this footballing journey, I am all set to embrace a new challenge, being a part of Kerala Blasters FC. I will give my best for the club, hoping to win many trophies together and bring joy to all the supporters who have been there with the club throughout these years. I am looking forward to playing in front of the passionate Kerala Blasters fans who have forever been loud, proud and the heartbeat of the club in God’s own country. Inni Yennum Yellow,” Nishu said after signing for Kerala.

Kerala’s Sporting Director, Karolis Skinkys was also thrilled to have Nishu join the Blasters ranks. “I would like to congratulate Nishu on joining the club. I’m positive that he will add value to our team with his quality and effort. Nishu is an ambitious youngster looking to achieve greater heights for himself and the club. I am looking forward to guiding him in realizing his ambition and in his position, become a preferred choice in the national team. I'm proud and very happy to have him in our team,” he said.

A marauding full-back, Nishu became a mainstay in Bengaluru’s backline over the past couple of Hero ISL seasons and also earned a call-up to the national team with his consistent performances. Just as comfortable in defence as he is while bombing forward in wide areas during attacks, the enterprising Indian full-back scored on his national team debut and has netted twice for Bengaluru in the Hero ISL.

Nishu follows the likes of midfielder Ritwik Das and goalkeeper Albino Gomes in joining Kerala and will have Jessel Carneiro, who recently extended his stay with the Blasters, as competition in the  full-back areas.