Erik Paartalu Melbourne City v Perth Glory A-League 17122015Getty

Indian Super League 2017: Bengaluru FC sign Erik Paartalu, retain Juanan and Johnson

Indian Super League new entrant Bengaluru FC have announced the signing of Sydney-born Erik Paartalu on a season-long deal.

The announcement arrives a week after the club opting to retain their two Indian players Sunil Chhetri and Udanta Singh.

The Southern Eagles have also retained defenders Juanan Gonzalez and John Johnson, both of whom are now expected to form a solid partnership in defence.

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Towering at 6'4", Sydney-born Paartalu began his career in the National Soccer League, now the A-League, with Northern Spirit. His stints in Australia included three seasons with Brisbane Roar when they played AFC Champions League football. At Brisbane, Paartalu won two Championships and one Premiership and played 85 consecutive matches while setting an Australian record of any sporting code with an unbeaten streak of 36 games.

Moves to China, Thailand and South Korea soon followed for Erik Paartalu, with the player finally deciding to bring his Asian journey to a temporary end to sign for the Blues

Erik Paartalu - Brisbane Roar - A-League 2011 grand finalGetty

“I was really excited by the Bengaluru FC project because it is a club that's doing really well for itself in an expanding market. Indian football is getting bigger and bigger. It felt like the right project to get involved with. I spoke with Cameron Watson and he sold it to me in terms of where the club is. They've been very successful in the last four years and are looking to make major steps in the Indian Super League,” said Paartalu.

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The 31-year-old was confident that his experience in AFC competition will prove handy for the Blues who are gearing up for their inter-zone semifinal in the AFC Cup against North Korean side 4.25 SC on August 23.

“I've played in a lot of countries in Asia so that experience is invaluable when it comes to playing games on different continents with short turnarounds. Being 31, I've experienced football for a long time and playing in the AFC Cup will definitely suit me. I look forward to playing in the ISL and I know I can do well in the League with a good team around me.”

Bengaluru FC coach Albert Roca said he was confident of Paartalu bringing his experience to the table as the club attempts to rebuild the squad this season. “A lot of things change for us this season and experience is what will play a key role during this phase. Erik brings that kind of experience with him and I’m certain he will be a vital figure at Bengaluru FC,” said Roca.

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