ISL 2019-20 | Kerala Blasters shore up defence with Gianni Zuiverloon
Kerala Blasters continued their brilliant transfer season with the signing of 32-year-old Dutch defender Gianni Zuiverloon, who has previously played for Delhi Dynamos. After a below par season, the Blasters have roped in Eelco Schattorie and Bartholomew Ogbeche among other star recruitments.
Despite a poor season in the league where the team finished in the bottom half, the Dynamos management has stuck with Josep Gombau because the side’s intent was quite unquestionable. And Gianni was an important part of that puzzle as he could play in the central defence as well as the defensive midfield.
The former U-21 Dutch international began his career with Feyenoord’s youth team before making his senior debut in the club in 2004. After playing for sides like RKC Waalwijik and Heerenveen, Gianni even debuted in the Premier League with West Bromwich Albion in 2008, but only to fizzle out soon. Playing for Ipswich Town in 2010, he eventually moved to Spain to play for Mallorca before returning to the Netherlands in 2012.
Despite the not so happening career, his experience and proactive approach to the game could be a great asset for any side and the player sounded delighted to return to India after a season. “I am very excited to play for Kerala Blasters, the club with the biggest fan base in India. Every home game has seen immense support from the fans. I hope I can help and be a part of the best season the club has had so far,” Zuiverloon said, reported Sportstar.
A calm headed defender with vision, Gianni is seemingly the perfect candidate for Schattorie and the manager shed light on the utility and experience of the player.
“Gianni is a very experienced defender having played at very good clubs in Holland, England and Spain. He can play multiple positions as centre back, holding midfielder and even at right back positions. With the ball, he is very solid, creative and can make a good pass. Most importantly he is a rock at the defence. I’m very happy to have him in the team," Schattorie said.
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