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Indian Super League side SC East Bengal have announced the signing of striker Thongkhosiem (Semboi) Haokip for the 2021/22 season.
Haokip joins the Red-and-Gold Brigade from Bengaluru FC, where he spent four seasons. Haokip was with East Bengal in 2017 for a short loan spell from Kerala Blasters FC.
“SC East Bengal will provide a fresh challenge, and that is something I am looking forward to. I have played for East Bengal before, so it’s great to be back. I know the pulse of the fans and that always motivates a footballer,” said 28 year old Haokip. “Being a striker, it is also a great opportunity for me to work with Robbie Fowler (head coach). He was such a legendary striker himself and I am looking forward to learning so much from him,” he added.
Haokip began his career with the Pune FC youth academy, going on to then play for the Pune FC first team and making a mark. He impressed in ISL 2015, scoring four goals in six matches for FC Goa, which included a hattrick against Mumbai City FC. Bengaluru FC then roped in Haokip in the 2017-18 season, where he was mainly used in the AFC Cup 2018, scoring thrice.
Haokip made seven appearances for the Blues during their ISL 2018-19 win and scored once. The striker added 14 more appearances to his tally in the 2019-20 season, scoring one goal. He made five appearances last season for Bengaluru FC.
