India midfielder Glan Martins on Wednesday signed a new three-year contract with FC Goa following his impressive debut season in the Indian Super League.
The new deal will see Martins play for the franchise till the summer of 2024, FC Goa wrote in a statement.
The central midfielder became a vital cog in Juan Ferrando's side in the second half of the last ISL season following a deadline-day switch from ATK Mohun Bagan in the January transfer window.
Martins started in 12 of the 14 matches he had been available for FC Goa, including five of the six AFC Champions League games the Gaurs played in April.
“It's really exciting for me and my family to sign this three-year deal with the club,” Martins told the official FC Goa website.
“I've grown so much here at this club in a very short time, both on and off the pitch. I would like to think that I am now more aware of what is expected of me, I know what I need to bring to the table.”
Ferrando expressed delight over the development.
“I am so happy to have him now back in the team for the long run. He is a real professional who improves our team,” said Ferrando.
Shibaji Banerjee to be conferred with Mohun Bagan Ratna posthumously
Former India goalkeeper Shibaji Banerjee, who stood out against Pele-led Cosmos Club in an exhibition match here in 1977, will be conferred with Mohun Bagan Ratna posthumously, the club announced on Wednesday.
The executive committee members also unanimously adjudged Fijian striker Roy Krishna as the Best Footballer of 2020-21, having guided ATK Mohun Bagan to the runners-up finish in the Indian Super League.
Bengal skipper Abhimanyu Easwaran was chosen as the Best Cricketer, while Bidisha Kundu, who won the 100m hurdles and high jump in the National Championship, was named as the Best Athlete.
"Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic situation, this year also the Mohun Bagan Day Celebration (on July 29) would be organised digitally," the club said in a statement.
Legendary Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Banerjee, who died at the age of 68 four years ago, is best remembered for denying legendary Pele from scoring off a free-kick in an exhibition match against visiting Cosmos in 1977.
He dived to snatch the ball from the Brazilian legend's feet in the match played in front of a capacity crowd at Eden Gardens.
The match ended in a 2-2 draw and Banerjee received a lot of praise.
During his eight-year long professional career with the Green and Maroons, Banerjee won four Calcutta Football League, five Durand Cup, five IFA Shield, four Federation Cup, two Rovers Cup titles.
