Kohima, Nov. 21 (EMN): Neithovilie Chalieu, the goalkeeper for Shillong Lajong Football Club has been selected in the 24-players squad for I-League.
Lajong FC officially released its squad for I-League squad on Tuesday evening on their official facebook page. It was informed that eight youngsters from Lajong academy have been promoted to the senior I-League team which Neithovilie was part of the academy including the six new foreign signings that the Club made earlier this year.
Janice Lynrah, media officer for Shillong Lajong FC confirmed this to Eastern Mirror that he has been registered for the I-League with Lajong for 2017-18.
Neithovilie will be fighting for his place against first choice goalkeeper of Phurba Tempa Lachenpa from Sikkim and the new signing of Nidhinlal Moolaka Veedu from Kerala. He has played seven matches in the Shillong Premier League this year for Lajong FC. Should he debut in I-league, he will become the second naga player to play in I-League after Kwethelhi Thopi.
18 year old Neithovilie is the son of Zhagwelhou and Kezhaleno Chalieu, hailing from Tsiepama village of Dimapur district. He is the fifth child among the seven siblings.
Speaking to Eastern Mirror, he said "I feel very excited to be part of the squad because it is a great opportunity. And also I would to give thanks to coaches and staff for giving me this opportunity"
Lajong has finished fifth last season in the I-League which was one of their best seasons in the I-League and this edition, the club will play their 7th consecutive I-League season against debutants team from Kerala, Gokulam Kerala FC on Nov. 27 at the JN Stadium Shillong at 8 pm.
