On Wednesday, Kerala Blasters FC announced the signing of 26-year-old Gokulam Kerala FC goalkeeper, Shibin Raj Kunniyil on a one-year deal. With the move, the Blasters have now well and truly secured their options at the back, with the local boy becoming the fourth goalkeeper on their roster for next season.

Shibin Raj moved to the Malabarians at the start of last season but still managed to impress the coaching staff to make 10 appearances for the club in the 2018-19 Hero I-League. Before that, the shot-stopper had a one-year stint with Mohun Bagan, where he made three appearances for them. His debut came in an AFC Cup match against Maziya S&RC in April 2017. Days later, the custodian made his Hero I-League debut against Chennai City FC.

The Blasters have been seriously strengthening their squad ahead of the upcoming Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) season. New head coach, Eelco Schattorie has already roped in Bartholomew Ogbeche, Mario Arques and Sergio Cidoncha among others and now has a serious squad capable of mounting a challenge in multiple competitions.