ISL-7: Odisha FC Bring On Board Former Newcastle United Star Steven Taylor

Bhubaneswar: Odisha FC has roped in experienced English defender Steven Taylor on a one-year deal with an option to extend it by another year, ahead of the seventh Hero Indian Super League (ISL).

The 34-year-old centre back made his senior club debut with the high-profile Newcastle United in 2003-04. He played in the Premier League for over a decade before moving to American professional club Portland Timbers.

Last season, the London-born footballer was captain of New Zealand side Wellington Phoenix FC, which competes in the Australian A-League.

Welcoming Taylor to Odisha FC, head coach Stuart Baxter said: “Steven’s credentials speak for themselves, but more than that we are bringing leadership qualities into our young squad. He is an exceptional defender and is a presence that will give the whole team a whole boost.”

Taylor was “extremely delighted” to be joining Odisha FC and hoped that his experience and leadership qualities will be helpful for the team. “I am very happy to be working under Stuart once again and can’t wait to meet all the young Indian lads. I hope I can help the lads push on and in turn egg the team on towards the playfoff spots. I am looking forward to create something special at Odisha, make no mistake about it,” Taylor said.