ISL: FC Pune City sign former Kerala Blasters and ATK striker Iain Hume

FC Pune City have signed Canadian striker Iain Hume for the upcoming season of the Indian Super League (ISL).

Hume, who was a part of the Kerala Blasters last season, has signed a one-year contract with the Pune franchise with the option of another year.

The former ATK and Kerala Blasters forward remains the highest goal-scorer in the ISL with 28 goals in 59 appearances. The forward had been out of action in the second half of his campaign with Kerala in the last edition due to a serious knee injury.

Pune City chief executive Gaurav Modwel expressed confidence in the striker’s recovery from the injury while commenting on the signing.

“Iain Hume got injured during last season and he has now undergone almost six months of rehabilitation post his surgery. He will continue his rehab under the supervision of our medical team and train with the team during preseason. If everything goes as planned, we estimate him to be back in 12- 14 weeks’ time. Iain is a highly motivated athlete and we are sure that he will get back to his previous best and play an important role for us this season,” he stated.

On his part, Hume was delighted to continue his long association with the ISL.

“It wasn’t a very tough decision to make, to return to the ISL and join FC Pune City if I’m honest. From the other side, I’ve always admired the top-class facilities at the training ground and the stadium and the way the club is professionally run. I’ve had long chats with the club and it’s medical team, and I’m sure together we can make my recovery as quick as possible and back doing what I do best,” Hume said.

“I’ve had a very good past four seasons in the ISL at both Kerala Blasters & ATK and still have a very good relationship with both clubs and sets of fans. The relationship I have with Manjappada is one that’s special and I’m sure will continue. But like every footballer, now that things are confirmed, I will give my whole-hearted efforts to make sure I’m back 100  per cent as soon as I can and give my blood, sweat & tears for FC Pune City and prove that their trust in me won’t go unrewarded. Look forward to meeting all the coaches, medical Staff, all my new teammates and of course, all the fans over the next few weeks,” he added.