AIFF recommends foreign players cap in Indian Super League, I-League

KOLKATA: The All India Football Federation (AIFF)'s technical committee on Friday recommended the implementation of the 3+1 foreigners' rule in the starting XI of teams playing in the Indian Super League (ISL) and I-League.

As per Asian Football Confederation (AFC) guidelines which are followed in their club competitions, the committee chaired by former India striker Shyam Thapa recommended a maximum of four overseas players, three foreigners of any nationality and one Asian player from a AFC member nation, can be on the pitch at any given point of time.

The recommendation for the changes would take place from the 2021-2022 season.

"We feel that more Indian players should get a chance. The national team coach (Igor Stimac) is also of the same opinion. The foreigners who have played in ISL and I-League have definitely helped our players get better. But we also need to see they get more game time," Thapa told IANS.

"We have recommended the same as per AFC guidelines. I personally feel that it should help our youngsters get more exposure," he added.

"The Committee discussed at length and unanimously recommended the implementation of the 3 (foreigners) +1 (Asian) recruit rule for all domestic league matches after the 2021 season onwards, as per current AFC regulations for participation in AFC club competitions," the AIFF said in a statement. IANS