Kerala Blasters FC head coach Vukomanovic reveals return dates for injured players
The Blasters have been plagued with serious injuries to several key players this season.
Kerala Blasters FC have been suffering from numerous injuries to their several key players since the outset of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023–24 season. Head coach Ivan Vukomanovic has consistently grappled with the absence of key players in numerous matches.
Seasoned foreign players such as Adrian Luna and Marko Leskovic, new signings like Jaushua Sotirio, Aiban Dohling and Kwame Peprah, as well as promising Indian talents like Jeakson Singh and Sachin Suresh, have all endured substantial injuries, leading to extended periods on the sidelines. This extensive list of injuries has recurrently posed a significant challenge for Vukomanovic and his team, potentially impacting their performance and results in crucial fixtures.
Ahead of Kerala Blasters FC’s next home game against FC Goa, the Serbian head coach shared insights on the current status of his injured players and their potential return dates.
Adrian Luna & Jaushua Sotirio
Jaushua Sotirio, the Australian forward who joined Kerala Blasters FC in the summer, faced an ankle injury during pre-season. He underwent successful surgery in July but has been absent from the ongoing season.
In December, team captain Adrian Luna had arthroscopic surgery for a chondral knee injury on his left foot. Luna had been in excellent form for the Blasters with three goals and four assists in nine league games and was a key contributor before his injury. Kerala Blasters FC, previously leading the standings with only one league defeat when Luna played, has now suffered four defeats this season, three which have come in their previous three matches.
“In the first half of March, we hope Jaushua Sotirio and Adrian Luna get back to Kochi and start practising a little with the team. But to see back on the pitch in the end (of the season) is doubtful. No chance,” Vukomanovic said.
Sachin Suresh
Suresh, in his debut ISL season, had solidified his position as the first-choice goalkeeper, playing a pivotal role in several team victories with crucial saves. Throughout 15 league matches, he achieved six clean sheets and made 33 saves.
However, Suresh suffered a severe shoulder injury during the Chennaiyin FC match, forcing him to be stretchered off the field. According to Vukomanovic, he will be sidelined for the rest of the season.
In addition to Suresh, the Blasters have also faced significant setbacks with players like Dohling and Peprah, both sidelined for the rest of the ongoing season due to serious injuries.
Vibin Mohanan
Midfielder Mohanan, another Kerala-born player, midfielder suffered an injury back in December. He was regularly featuring in the starting eleven under Vukomanovic before sustaining an injury during the Blasters' home win against Mumbai City FC in December. He is expected to be seen in action in Kerala Blasters FC’s forthcoming match against FC Goa.
“We could see Vibin Mohanan play against FC Goa (on Saturday). We are happy to see him back after his injury against Mumbai City FC,” Vukomanovic revealed.
