ISL 2022-23: NorthEast United FC rope in Matt Derbyshire, continue attempts to bring Thievy Bifouma in

NorthEast United FC has roped in the services of Matt Derbyshire and the club is also trying to bring in Thievy Bifouma on board ahead of the ninth edition of the Hero Indian Super League. A source close to the development has confirmed that the club has offered a one-year contract to both of these players.

Matt Derbyshire started his football journey with Great Harwood Town. Subsequently, he went on to ply his trade at clubs like Darwen FC, Blackburn Rovers, Wrexham, Olympiacos, and Birmingham City FC.

Derbyshire also two Golden Boots awards for Omonia Nikosia of Cyprus. He won the English League Cup while playing for Birmingham City FC. Derbyshire also played for the England U-21 team and played a key role in the success of the team UEFA U-21 championships.

On the other hand, Thievy Bifouma played for clubs like Espanyol, UD Las Palmas, West Bromwich Albion, Granada CF, Stade Reims, and many other reputed teams. Furthermore, he scored eight goals in the 68 La Liga matches he played.

Bifouma made 33 appearances for Congo national team and scored 14 goals for his team.

Meanwhile, NorthEast United FC had earlier roped in midfielders like Jithin MS and Emil Benny from I-League champions Gokulam Kerala FC. Furthermore, they have signed the services of goalkeeper Arindam Bhattacharja.

On the other hand, NorthEast United FC had a disappointing previous season in the tournament as they could only manage three wins in 20 league stage matches.

They finished at 10th place after only bagging 14 points and the club will be determined to turn the tables in the ninth edition of the Hero ISL. Thus, the Highlanders will be determined to turn the tables in the upcoming season of the tournament.