ISL 2016: FC Pune City bolster defence by signing Narayan Das and Augustin Fernandes

Pune: Indian Super League club FC Pune City strengthened their defence by signing left back Narayan Das and Goan centre back Augustin Fernandes for the 2016 edition of the league.

FC Pune City CEO Gaurav Modwel said, “Augustin is a good defender with great natural talent. His reading of the game and match situation is very good. Narayan is one of the finest left backs that we have in the country today.”

Narayan, a Tata Football Academy alumnus has played previously for Pailan Arrows, Dempo, FC Goa and East Bengal.

In 2011, he made his India U-19 debut followed by U-23 debut in the next year. In 2013, the 22-year old graduated to make his senior national debut against Nepal and has since been a regular member with the Indian national team. Narayan plied his trade with FC Goa in the 2015 and 2016 ISL seasons.

Goa-born Augustin has played in his state since the beginning of his professional career. Starting his youth career with SESA, Augustin, in 2011, was drafted by Salgaocar FC.

In his debut season, he helped the Goan outfit win 2011 I-League title and the Federation Cup both. Since then he has been an integral part of club’s success story. He joined Atletico de Kolkata in 2015 edition of ISL and in the same year also made his debut with the national team. He will now be joining his former coach Antonio Habas at FC Pune City.

Head coach Antonio Habas felt both Narayan and Augustin will add great value to the team formation.

“Narayan is a good left back and has the ability to go forward in the attacking positions which is a fantastic attribute to have. Augustin is a very versatile defender who can adapt to different situations and can own any position in defense given to him.”

Both Narayan and Augustin were excited at joining their new ISL outfit.

“FC Pune City has built a good team under the guidance of Coach Habas and I look forward to making my contribution and helping the team win ISL this year,” said Narayan.

Augustin, who rejoin Arata Izumi and coach Habas, “Its always a pleasure to work with coach Habas. I am thankful to FC Pune City and coach Habas for giving me this opportunity to take a new challenge.”