ISL 2023-24: Odisha FC signs ISL-winning midfielder Puitea

The Mizoram-born midfielder kickstarted his career with Bethlehem Vengthlam before securing a move to the DSK Shivajians Academy.

Published : Aug 02, 2023 20:36 IST , Bhubaneswar - 1 MIN READ

FILE PHOTO: Lalthathanga Khawlhring (red) in action for NorthEast FC. | Photo Credit: VIVEK BENDRE/The Hindu

Odisha FC on Wednesday completed the transfer of Indian Super League-winning Mohun Bagan midfielder Lalthathanga Khawlhring ‘Puitea’ on a three-year deal, for a club-record transfer fee.

The Mizoram-born midfielder kickstarted his career with Bethlehem Vengthlam before securing a move to the DSK Shivajians Academy.

Puitea was awarded the “Best Midfielder” in the Mizoram Premier League for the 2015-16 season.

In 2017, Northeast United FC secured his services on a three-year deal but was loaned out to Aizawl FC for the entirety of the season.

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Puitea quickly became a mainstay for Aizawl as he finished the season with a goal to his name.

Eventually, he returned to the Highlanders the following season and debuted against the Gaurs. Puitea made a total of 29 appearances for NEUFC.

A move to Kerala Blasters was on the cards for Puitea where he inked a three-year deal with the club.

He made his debut and announced himself by scoring his first ISL goal against Bengaluru FC after coming on as a substitute in the 46th minute.

The midfielder was pivotal for the Blasters reaching the ISL final, forming a solid partnership with Jeakson Singh.

Puitea joins the Kalinga Warriors on the back of winning the ISL 2022-23 with ATK Mohun Bagan (now Mohun Bagan Super Giant) beating BFC in the finals.