India head coach Manolo Marquez has handed a maiden call-up for NorthEast United midfielder Macarton Louis Nickson ahead of the team’s AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier opener against Bangladesh.
The 21-year-old has impressed during NorthEast’s run to the Indian Super League (SIL) play-offs, the club’s first qualification since 2020.
Macarton moved to the Highlanders in 2023 from FC Bengaluru United and enjoyed a breakthrough ISL campaign last season, when he made 14 appearances.
The Karnataka-born player was part of the club’s Durand Cup win last summer and has become a regular fixture in the starting XI during the ongoing ISL season, recording 20 matches. Playing as a defensive midfielder, he has also scored two goals to go with his solitary assist.
NEUFC head coach Juan Pedro Benali singled him out for praise after the club’s 3-0 win away to Mumbai City FC at the end of December. “[He is a] Great young player but at the same time, he needs to have his feet on the floor,” Benali cautioned.
Marquez had already named winger Udanta Singh as a replacement for attacking midfielder Brandon Fernandes’ injury, which he suffered during the 3-0 victory over Maldives on Wednesday.
India will take on Bangladesh on Tuesday in Shillong.
Content Source: sportstar.thehindu.com