ISL: Ogbeche, Kerala Blasters part ways

Kerala Blasters FC have parted ways with centre-forward Bartholomew Ogbeche. Ogbeche captained the squad in the sixth edition of the Indian Super League (ISL).

The former Nigerian international had joined the club from NorthEast United FC.

Blasters thanked Ogbeche for his services and wished him all the very best for his future assignments.

“In the brief time that I got to know him, I would like to thank Bart for his commitment and professionalism towards the club. We did share a revised offer, in light of the coronavirus pandemic, but in the end we both move forward with great mutual respect for each other. I wish him the best for all his future endeavours,” said Blasters Sporting Director Karolis Skinkys.

Ogbeche, who will turn 36 on October 1, was the joint top-scorer in ISL 2019-20, with 15 goals, but it could not prevent Blasters from finishing seventh in the 10-team tournament.

“Unbelievable as it seems, I’m leaving this great club, but all I can say is I’ll always remember my time here with lots of pride and joy in my heart. I would like to thank my teammates, coaches, management, and all the staffs. To the fans, words can’t describe how grateful I am, and will always be for your love and steadfast support during the past season. I wish the club lots of success for the future,” said Ogbeche who is most likely to play for Mumbai City FC in the upcoming ISL season.

All matches of the seventh edition of ISL will be held in three venues in Goa, likely in November, amid strict health and safety measures to deal with the COVID-19 threat.