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The Rajesh Wadhawan Group and Hrithik Roshan co-owned Indian Super League franchise FC Pune City fortified their defence by signing left back Narayan Das and Goan centre back Augustin Fernandes for the 2016 edition of the ISL.
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. He possesses good technical ability and can be dangerous going forward. Both are proven performers at the national and international level and I am sure they will form an integral part of our defense this year.”
Narayan, a Tata Football Academy alumnus has played previously for Pailan Arrows, Dempo, FC Goa and East Bengal Club. 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 2014 and 2015 ISL seasons.
Goa-born Augustin has played in his state since the beginning of his professional career. Starting his youth career with SESA Football Academy, Augustin in 2011 was drafted by Salgaocar FC. In his debut season, he helped the Goan outfit win both the 2011 I-League title and the Federation Cup. Since then he has been an integral part of club’s success story. He joined Atletico Kolkata in the 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 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 will join Arata Izumi and coach Habas again said, “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.”
Co-owner and Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan welcomed the duo. “Both Narayan and Augustin’s addition will strengthen our defence. With their skill and experience we will aim to be the best in the league.”
