I-League debutants JSW Sports sign British players

I-League new entrants JSW Sports have bolstered their squad with the signing of two England-based defenders John Johnson and Curtis Osano.

While 24-year-old Englishman Johnson has turned out for Middlesbrough in one match in the English Premier League in 2008, Kenyan Osano is a product of the academy at Reading club and has last played for League Two side AFC Wimbledon. Reading played in the EPL last season but were relegated after finishing 19th.

"It's surely a big change but once the manager told me about the Club, the vision and projects they have lined up, it was not hard to say yes. I've been doing my homework on the I-League and am looking forward to get there," said Johnson who spent his last three season at NorthamptonTown.

Johnson and Osano, who was born in Kenya but moved to England when he was nine, have played in the central defence and right back positions but are equally comfortable in the midfield.

"I have played with and against John and Curtis and the two will bring a lot of experience to the team. The both have played over a 100 Games and that says a lot. John is flexible with positions, is a great athlete and is really strong in the air," JSW coach Ashley Westwood said.

"As for Curtis, he's quick and dynamic and very comfortable with the ball. He has a nice mix of strength and discipline. The club has done well in signing the duo considering there were Clubs in England interested in them," Westwood added.

Osano came through the ranks at Reading under the guidance of current Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers.

"I love challenges and the idea of getting into a League with a completely different style of Football intrigued me. The Manager is trying to bring a different brand of Football and I consider it as a once in a lifetime chance, a blessing that's fallen in my lap," said 26-year-old Osano.