Guwahati: Even before Indian Super League team NorthEast United FC could start their campaign, they have been hit by visa issues that will keep their two key players, Leo Bertos and Cornell Glenn, out of action against Kerala Blasters here according to reports. NorthEast United take on David James-led Blasters in their opening tie at Indira Gadhi National Stadium here on Monday.
New Zealand's Bertos and Trinidad and Tobago's Glenn, who play for East Bengal and Shillong Lajong FC respectively in I-League, failed to get the visa in time.
The absence of these two experienced World Cup-playing footballers will affect Blasters' preparations and they might need to change the stratergy ahead of their opening tie. NorthEast United is co-owned by John Abraham with Guwahati as its base.
NorthEast United are coached by former New Zealand coach Ricki Herbert. Herbert managed the New Zealand national setup from 2005-2013, and even managed to secure the country's second ever qualification for a World Cup in 2010.
The club signed Joan Capdevilla as their marquee signing. A product of Espanyol's youth system, the Spanish international has made over 300 La Liga appearances for clubs such as Atletico Madrid, Deportivo and Villareal.
NorthEast United boast the youngest squad in the tournament and it remains to be seen if they can mount a real challenge for the other teams.
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