Clubs draw from pool of Chirag United Kerala

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Ever since the introduction of league football in India, Kerala players have been searching for greener pastures in Goa and Kolkata.

Old powerhouses SBT and Kerala Police have become depleted and Chirag Kerala United (Viva Kerala) has of late emerged as a major contributor to Brand Kerala Football in the I-league.

“I moved to Prayag United from Chirag Kerala United five years ago. Kolkata gave me a better opportunity and I learnt a lot,” said Denson Devadas, former captain of Prayag.

The defensive midfielder from Kannur was one of Chirag Kerala’s leading players five years ago.
“What I have become now is due to the initial experience I got at the camp. Every Kerala footballer likes to play at home, and so do I,” he said.

Denson was the best footballer from Kolkata last year and has been one of the major contributors to the success of Prayag United in the I-league. “It was a remarkable experience for me in Kolkata. Chirag Kerala is a grooming ground for players from the State,” he said.

Last year’s transfer list bears testimony to this.

Viva Kerala lost most of its ace players to Goa and Kolkata. M.P. Sakeer, the Indian international, was one of the brightest players groomed by Chirag. He was hired by Goan club Churchill Brothers.
Shahinlal Meloly, who is playing for Pune FC this season, is also a product of Viva Kerala.

C.S. Sabeeth, the Indian under-23 striker, was also groomed by Viva Kerala.

He is now with Pailan Arrows and has been impressive in the national league.

With the revival of Kerala Police Football Club and Quartz Soccer Club in Malabar, more Kerala youngsters are likely to get a chance to play at the national level. “One of the major aims of reviving Kerala Police Football Club is to give players a chance to play in their home State. Besides, they will get to play more matches as well,” said coach C.V. Pappachan.