Jamshedpur FC has made a significant addition to their squad ahead of the upcoming season, securing the services of Nigerian international Stephen Eze on a two-year deal. The 6’4” defender joins the Men of Steel as their fourth foreign signing and the first in the central defensive position, bolstering their backline with his imposing presence and aerial prowess.
Eze’s return to Jamshedpur FC marks a reunion with the club where he previously showcased his abilities in the 2020-21 season. During that stint, he impressed with his dominance in aerial duels, winning an impressive 93, highlighting his strength and ability to win headers. His offensive contributions were also notable, scoring four goals and winning a total of 126 duels, demonstrating his all-around ability.
Prior to his return to India, Eze played for Quang Nam in Vietnam, featuring in 20 games and scoring two goals. His experience extends beyond Asia, having previously played for Owen Coyle’s Queens Park in Scotland, where he made 17 appearances and narrowly missed qualification to the Scottish top division, contributing three goals during the season.
The defender expressed his excitement about returning to Jamshedpur FC, stating, “I am ecstatic to be back at Jamshedpur FC, a club that has always felt like home to me although my first season was different in the bubble in Goa during covid. So I am excited to now play in our real home at the Furnace. I want to build on my previous experience from ISL and contribute to helping the team succeed in the ISL. I am excited to be in Jamshedpur and get started.”
Eze’s experience extends beyond the club level, as he has also represented the Nigerian National Team. He further honed his skills playing with Lokomotiv Plovdiv in the Bulgarian top division, even participating in the Europa League.
JFC head coach, Khalid Jamil, expressed his enthusiasm about Eze’s return, highlighting his versatility and experience, saying, “I’m thrilled to welcome Stephen Eze back to Jamshedpur FC! He’s a versatile player who will solidify our defence as a centre-back, capable of playing on both the right and left sides, as well as in a defensive midfield role. His experience in the ISL will be invaluable, particularly in set pieces, where he’ll play a crucial role in both defence and attack. We need aggressive and experienced players like Eze in our setup, and I believe he has the leadership qualities, maturity and presence to marshal our defence.”
Eze will be sporting the number six jersey and is expected to join the pre-season training sessions in the coming weeks. His arrival is a testament to Jamshedpur FC’s commitment to building a strong and competitive squad for the upcoming ISL season.
