ISL: Jamshedpur retain midfielder Jitendra Singh

Jamshedpur, July 26 (IANS) Indian Super League (ISL) side Jamshedpur FC on Tuesday announced that they have retained Jitendra Singh and the extension will keep midfielder with the club till May 2024.

Fondly known as Jitu, the former U17 World Cupper became an indispensable part of last season's League Winners' Shield winning team thereby making Jamshedpur the 'Champions of India.'

Jitendra, known to be omnipresent across the pitch with his high work rate, had an influential role to play in midfield in the previous season.

The midfielder recorded impressive numbers last season with 67 tackles, 19 interceptions, and 10 clearances. He also provided an important assist against ATK Mohun Bagan to set up Len Doungel in a 2-1 victory and won the Hero of the Match award for his top-notch performance.

"The trust set in me by everyone at the club gave me a lot of confidence and it translated into a lot of playing time, especially last season. The overall experience at Jamshedpur FC has shaped me as a better midfielder," said Jitendra after signing the dotted line.

"Having played in front of the loud and proud fans at the Furnace earlier as well, I am looking forward to coming back to Jamshedpur as a Champion and help the club bring more silverware," it added.

Born in Uttarakhand, Jitendra moved to Kolkata with his family to start his career in football. He was part of the AIFF Elite Academy batch that was preparing for the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup to be hosted in India. After the tournament, he was selected to play for the Indian Arrows.

The footballer officially joined Jamshedpur in the 2018 summer transfer window and was loaned out to Indian Arrows for more exposure and became an integral part of the squad in the 2018-19 season.

After completing his loan stint, Jitu made his debut for Jamshedpur in an epic 1-0 win vs FC Goa in Goa. Jitu made a mark and vastly improved playing 19 matches last season.

"I am extremely delighted that we have secured the services of Jitu after some excellent performances last season, often an unsung hero in many of Jamshedpur's wins," said Jamshedpur FC head coach Aidy Boothroyd.

"I am looking forward to working with him, he has the potential to be an excellent player for club and country," he added.

The 21-year old also expressed his joy to work with the new gaffer, Aidy Boothroyd.

"Mr Aidy has developed a lot of young players back in England and I am excited to receive his inputs in developing my game. He will be a guiding force for me and the whole squad," he said.

Jitendra will continue donning squad number 3 for Jamshedpur FC and will join the squad for pre-season in mid-August.