ISL: Kerala Blasters rope in former Arsenal player Graham Stack

Kerala Blasters today announced the signing of English-born Irish footballer Graham Stack for the Indian Super League third season this year.

Stack came through the ranks at Arsenal and was part of the Gunners’ unbeaten run in the 2003-04 season of the Premier League. He brings with him extensive professional football experience having played for KSK Beveren, Millwall FC, Reading FC, Leeds United FC, Wolverhampton FC, Plymouth FC, Blackpool FC, Hibernian FC and Barnet FC.

Stack made seven appearances for the Republic of Ireland national under-21 football team. He joined Arsenal in the summer of 1998, and signed his first professional contract in July 2000. His Arsenal debut came in a League Cup match against Rotherham in October 2003.

Stack has experienced winning the Premier League with Arsenal, the Championship with Reading and Wolves, and the Conference with Barnet.

Stack is a UEFA-A Licensed Player and goalkeeper coach and at Barnet FC he had also taken on the roles of first team coach and goalkeeping coach whilst still playing.

At Kerala Blasters, in addition to playing for the team, Stack will also be working with coach Steve Coppell as goalkeeping coach for the younger players in the team.

“Coming to India and being part of a side like Kerala Blasters is an exciting challenge. I believe in being pro-active in giving the young players the best opportunity to be successful and maximize their full potential, and working with Coach Steve will help me make a difference and keep the team focused,” Stack said.

Steve Coppell said, “I welcome Graham Stack to the Kerala Blasters fold. He is a passionate and highly driven player who will add to the synergy of the team. Graham along with Aaron would be assisting me in mentoring the younger players through the season. I am looking forward to working with him.”