KOLAKATA: East Bengal Club, on Friday, after much deliberation confirmed the signing of striker Somide Adelaja, who was on trial for last six days, as their third foreigner for the forthcoming Calcutta Premier Division 2016/17.
Earlier the Red & Golds had a series of discussions with Bangladeshi club Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi’s Wedson Anselme, and as per initial reports the sriker was on his way to join the Kolkata giants. But later it was revealed that the Haitain’s contract with the Bangladesh Football League champions expires in December, which left East Bengal high and dry without a recognised foreign striker with CFL around the corner. However, East Bengal management, who were unwilling to sign a unknown foreigner, called Adelaja as a last minute optition.
Upon joining the East Bengal practice on Sunday, Adelaja has played two practice matches against Bangaon Municipality XI and Mohammedan Sporting Club. But in both matches the Nigerian has failed to make any significant contributions, but barely a week left before their season opener against Bhawanipore Club, East Bengal did not had time left to see any new foreigner therefor coach Trevor Morgan decided to put his trust on Adelaja.
The 27-year old, is an experienced front-man, who has plied his trade with the likes United Sikkim, Mohammedan SC, Tollygunge Agragami and Guwahati FC in past. His most notable performance came against Mohun Bagan playing for Mohammedan SC in the 2014-15 Calcutta Football League where scored one and assisted one in his team’s epic 2-1 victory.