Brazilian defender Eli Sabia extends contract

Brazilian defender Eli Sabia extends contract Chennai, Aug 17 (PTI):ISL team Chennaiyin FC on Saturday announced Brazilian defender Eli Sabia had extended his contract with the club, that will see the 30-year old turn out for the 2019-20 season. Sabia said he was happy to stay with the club.

"I am very happy to continue with the club I love so much. In this new season, along with my teammates, we will work hard to achieve what our fans deserve. "We are a champion club and we will be back at the top.

I would like to thank Chennaiyin FC for giving me this opportunity to do my best again...," said an elated Sabia in a message to the club from his home at Santa Catarina in Brazil. Head coach John Gregory said "Eli was a standout player for us in what was otherwise a difficult season. His commitment and prowess in defence has been exemplary, and he has always been a thorough professional." His first ever stint in Indian football was in the 2016 ISL season with Chennaiyin.

He then returned to Brazil for a short spell at Sertaozinho FC before switching to Al Raed in Saudi Arabia. He then rejoined CFC ahead of the 2018-19 season. Sabia has made 40 appearances across all competitions for the club over the 2016 and 2018-19 seasons, a press note said..