ISL: FC Pune City signs Iain Hume

Pune City FC on Thursday signed Canadian striker Iain Hume for the 2018-19 season of the Indian Super League.

Hume, who is the highest goal scorer in the history of ISL, has plied his trade with Kerala Blasters FC and ATK, scoring 28 goals in four seasons.

FC Pune City signed a match-winner in striker Iain Hume for the 2018-19 Indian Super League (ISL) season. The powerful Canadian is the league’s highest goal-getter over four seasons — 28 goals in 59 appearances. Kerala Blasters FC and ATK had secured his services earlier.

As part of the agreement, FCPC have an option to retain him for one more year at the end of the coming season. Popular with fans in Kerala and Kolkata, Hume was out of action for the rest of season following a knee injury last year. He had surgery done on his right knee and rehabilitation in India and the UK.

The striker said: “It wasn’t a very tough decision to make, to return to the ISL. From the other side, I’ve always admired the top-class facilities and the way F C Pune City is professionally run. I’ve had long chats with the club and its medical team. I’m sure together we can make recovery as quick as possible and back doing what I do best (scoring goals).”

FCPC CEO Gaurav Modwel, commented: “Iain Hume got injured during last season and has now undergone almost six months of rehabilitation post his surgery. He will continue rehab under the supervision of our medical team and train with the team during pre-season. If everything goes as planned, we estimate him to be back in 12- 14 weeks’ time.”

Referring to his earlier stints, the clean-shaven Canadian quipped: “I’ve had a very good four seasons at both Kerala Blasters and ATK. I still have a very good relationship with both clubs and sets of fans. The relationship I have with Manjappada is one that’s special and I’m sure will continue,” he said: “Like every footballer, now that things are confirmed, I will give my whole-hearted efforts to make sure I’m back 100 percent for Pune City.”

Coaches, team-mates and fans at Blasters, ATK respected and loved Hume for his commitment to the side. Playing in different set-ups at Kochi and Kolkata, the striker terrorised defenders with his pace and knack of finishing off moves. FCPC retained two deadly finishers in Marcelinho and Emilano Alfaro for the coming season. The Canadian is the third threat opponents need to be prepared for.