Kerala Blasters sign ex-Arsenal footballer Stack for ISL

Kochi: Indian Super League (ISL) franchise Kerala Blasters FC on Thursday announced the signing of former Arsenal footballer Graham Stack for the third edition of the tournament.

The English-born Irish footballer Stack came through the ranks at Arsenal and was part of their unbeaten English Premier League winning team in the 2003-04 season.

Stack made seven appearances for the Republic of Ireland U-21 football team. He joined Arsenal in 1998 and signed his first professional contract in July 2000.

At Kerala Blasters, in addition to playing for the team, Stack will also be working with head coach Steve Coppell as the goalkeeping coach for the younger players in the team.

“Coming to India and being part of a side like Kerala Blasters is an exciting challenge. I am looking forward to meeting my new teammates. I believe in being pro-active in giving young players the best opportunity to be successful and maximise their full potential. Working with coach Steve will help me make a difference and keep the team focused,” Stack said in a Blasters release.

Kerala's head coach Coppell said: “I welcome Graham Stack to the Kerala Blasters fold. He is a passionate and highly driven player who will add to the synergy of the team. I am looking forward to working with him.”