Postiga, Lekic boost ATK

Kolkata, Nov 11: Defending Indian Super League (ISL) champions Atlético de Kolkata (ATK), who won a thriller against Kerala Blasters FC (3-2) in an away tie on Tuesday, are all set to be bolstered by the return of their marquee player Hélder Postiga and the addition of Serbian striker Dejan Lekic.

Lekic is a member of the Serbian national team and has played for La Liga sides like CA Osasuna and SD Eibar. He will be joining the outfit in place of Josemi who would not be able to take part in the rest of the tournament due to an injury.

Postiga, on the other hand, has recovered from his hamstring strain after treatment in Portugal and the Atlético de Madrid facilities in Spain. The former Portuguese international had to be stretchered off the field in the tournament opener against Chennaiyin FC where he scored a brace.

The 33-year-old will join the ATK squad in Delhi on Thursday, prior to the team's last away match against Delhi Dynamos FC on November 14.

"Postiga will definitely add enthusiasm to the side after our good performance yesterday against Kerala Blasters FC. He has recuperated well and hopefully will be in action very soon. I am also looking forward to Lekic who seems a good prospect for the team is also expected soon to join the side," ATK coach Antonio Lopez Habas said in a release on Wednesday.

"We welcome Hélder Postiga back to the squad. His presence on the field was felt during the very first match of this season where he scored two beautiful goals. Also the red and white fans in Kolkata will be able to watch his moves closely as we have back to back home matches lined up after our last away match against Delhi Dynamos FC," said Atletico co-owner Sanjiv Goenka.

"We are looking forward to some brilliant football from Dejan Lekic who will add fervor to our front and increase the goal scoring opportunities," he added.