Atletico de Kolkata releases striker Fikru

Ahead of their Indian Super League (ISL) final against Kerala Blasters Fc, Atletico de Kolkata have released ace striker Fikru Teferra Lemessa on account of his hamstring injury.

Fikru, who has a grade 1 tear in his hamstring, would return to South Africa for further treatment, the ISL franchisee said in a statement.

"Fikru's injury would have kept him out of the all important final Saturday but as a team we decided to release him ahead of the title clash to enable his speedy recovery," said ATK co-owner Utsav Parekh. "Fikru has won millions of fans not only for Atletico de Kolkata but across the country through his exceptional game and even more exciting 'somersaults'," said Parekh, wishing the player a speedy recovery.

"Fikru has become a father of a baby girl and I on behalf of the team management wish him and his wife all the happiness to enjoy the most precious bonding with their little baby. Since Fikru would not be available for Saturday's final, we decided that staying with his family at this moment of joy would be ideal."