FC Pune City sign two prominent English players

Nicky Shorey has played previously for a number of Premier League clubs, while Steve Simonsen is best known for his time at Stoke City.

After the big signing of Costa Rican star striker Yendrick Ruiz, Indian Super League (ISL) outfit FC Pune City have inked deals with Nicky Shorey, the left back who was with Portsmouth FC last year and stopper Steve Simonsen, who until last year was plying his trade with Rangers FC.

Shorey, the England left-back known for his pace and set piece ability, has played previously for a number of Premier League clubs including Reading, West Bromwich Albion, Aston Villa, Porstmouth among others.

On the signing, Nicky said, “I am excited to be playing in India, I have tried to follow a few matches of last season and I am really looking forward to playing the ISL. Signing with FC Pune City is really exciting as I’d get to play under David Platt who has so much of experience to share. I am hoping to bring my experience on field and helping the team win the title.”

Stopper Steve Simonsen, best known from his time at Stoke City for whom he made more that 150 appearances, is the other Englishman signed by FC Pune City. Simonsen has spent the last two years at Rangers where his team created history by going the entire 2013-14 season undefeated in their last 115 years, clinching the Scottish League One championship on the way.

“I am extremely honoured to be playing for FC Pune City, I heard a lot about the ISL from friends who played last season and I’m looking forward to being part of the FC Pune City journey and hoping to bring in my experience to win games & hearts together,” said Simonsen.

Coach of FC Pune City David Platt said, “Signing Nicky and Steve is very pleasing. Nicky has a huge amount of experience and has great composure on the ball and doesn’t panic off it. He will be a very valuable member of the squad. As well as Steve’s ability, the thing I have admired the most was his keenness to come.

“As soon as the draft was over we started to speak and for both parties it became a quick and an easy decision. Both players will bring a lot of knowledge with them which will help the domestic players we have.”