FIFA WC Qualifiers: Jeakson Singh to Jay Gupta... Four Changes That Igor Stimac Made In India Squad

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India's men's football team has taken off for the March 21's India vs Afghanistan away match in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. Coach Igor Stimac made four changes in the squad, namely Jeakson Singh, Imran Khan, Jay Gupta, and Amey Ranawade.

MyKhel takes a look at the four fresh additions after the AFC Asian Cup debacle, starting with Jeakson Singh, who is making a comeback after a long injury lay-off.

The 22-year-old defensive midfielder last played for India during the SAFF Championships in Bengaluru, when his key performances made him a crucial part of the national setup. Jeakson has found his way back into the line-up with club Kerala Blasters as well/ But three of his club teammates -- KP Rahul, Pritam Kotal and Ishan Pandita -- were dropped by Stimac.

The rest of the three are maiden call-ups, starting with 26-year-old defender Amey Ranawade, who is rewarded for his consistent show with Odisha FC. Playing as a right-back, Ranawde has 80% passing accuracy and replaces Pritam Kotal in a like-for-like change. Ranawade has made 60 tackles, 20 blocks and won 40 aerial duels for his club in the ongoing season. He is a potent attacking threat with 28 chances created in the opponent's half. Having said that, he has one red card in his track as well.

FC Goa left-back Jay Gupta has been among the emerging performers of the ongoing ISL sesaon. Known to be an attack-minded full-back, he has direct involvement in four of the FC Goa goals in the league campaign. The footballer, who has played junior-level football in Spain, is known for his pace outburst, shooting from distance abilities and defensive physicality.

29-year-old midfielder Imran Khan, who plays for Jamshedpur FC, is among the late bloomers, who impressed in the last two seasons. A regular name in Khalid Jamil's playing 11, the winger has made 16 appearances overall, playing 1,264 minutes. With 78% pass accuracy, 61 created chances, 54 key passes, and 4 goals in his statistics, he impressed Stimac enough to replace someone like Udanta Singh or KP Rahul in the squad.