“In CK, V trust,” read a cleverly-worded banner at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi during one of the Indian Super League matches featuring Kerala Blasters. The faith the Blasters fans have in Chekiyot Kizhakkeveettill Vineeth isn't unfounded.
Last season, having joined the team midway through the tournament, he played a stellar role in Kerala Blasters reaching the final, where they lost to ATK on penalties. Consequently, he was retained for the current season. In ISL 2017-18, too, the 29-year-old wily striker snatched a draw for his team against Chennaiyin FC and a stunning win against Pune FC, courtesy a couple of late goals.
However, his on-and-off performance, especially in the last two crucial matches against Chennaiyin FC and Bengaluru FC, seems to have pushed the team and Vineeth to look at other options. Though it is yet to be confirmed that Kerala Blasters and Vineeth have officially decided to part ways, sources say that the Kannur lad might not be there with the 'Yellow Army' next season.
In all probability, Vineeth will play for the Blasters in the Super Cup, the qualifiers of which will start from March 15, and which will be hosted by Bhubaneshwar. The top six teams from the ISL and the I-League will qualify automatically for the tournament, while four teams from the remaining outfits will be decided from the qualifiers.
It is highly unlikely that there will be an official confirmation about Vineeth soon, given his popularity with the home fans. Also, he has taken charge as an auditor at the Tripunithura Regional Performance Audit office in Kochi today—which is a state government job.
Reportedly, the striker has been offered to other ISL clubs without any transfer fees though it is yet unclear whether any franchises have shown interest.