Star right-winger Romeo Fernandes has penned a one-year deal with SC East Bengal which will keep him at the club till the end of the season, the club announced on Thursday.

Romeo, 29, was with FC Goa for their maiden AFC Champions League campaign early this year. The Assolna-born footballer donned East Bengal colours in 2016-17, on loan from FC Goa. “I can’t express how happy I am. This season is a big challenge for me and I can’t wait to take the field for SC East Bengal. I have played for this club before and I know the passion surrounding this institution,” said Romeo after putting pen to paper for the Red-and-Gold Brigade.

“Personally, and for the team, I have goals in mind and I will give my all in training every day to realise those goals. I am taking one day at a time now and just keeping my focus intact. I am thankful to the SC East Bengal management for providing me with this opportunity,” added Romeo who set the Hero ISL on fire in his first three seasons with FC Goa.

Romeo became the first Indian footballer to play professionally in Brazil when he signed for Atlético Paranaense in 2015, riding on his stellar performances in the league. On his return from Brazil, Romeo was an integral part of the FC Goa side which reached the Hero ISL 2015 final. After making 49 appearances for FC Goa in the first four seasons, Romeo moved to Delhi Dynamos FC and later Odisha FC.

Romeo had a memorable time under Brazilian legend and former FC Goa head coach Zico, scoring six of his seven goals and registering seven of nine assists in the Hero ISL over three seasons.

SC East Bengal, coached by Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler, took part in their maiden Hero ISL campaign last season, finishing in ninth place.