It's in Bengaluru's DNA to win trophies, says Sandesh Jhingan after completing move

The India defender spent the second half of the 2016-17 season on loan from Kerala Blasters at Bengaluru, winning the Federation Cup and making it to the top of the group in the AFC Cup. Those memories of playing at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, the club's Fortress, are still fresh for Jhingan, so when Bengaluru came calling, he didn't hesitate. "The memories of me being here played a big role," Jhingan told TOI after completing his move on Sunday.

"I came on loan and had some great memories with the team. Lot of players are still here from that time. We had a great time, some good results.

"I am lucky enough to play in fine stadiums like Kochi, Fatorda, Salt Late with the (Mohun) Bagan fans. There's a very special connection with Kanteerava. During my initial days with the national team, we played a lot of games here.

I think the first time I started doing the Viking clap was here. I have a special connection with the ground." Jhingan, 29, spent the last two seasons at ATK Mohun Bagan. In-between, he signed for HNK Sibenik, but an injury that he picked up during training with the club meant he could not make his debut in the Croatian top-tier league.

He returned home, joined ATKMB, and when his short-term contract ended, mulled over the possibility of playing abroad, before eventually deciding to switch to Bengaluru. "When things got over between ATK Mohun Bagan and me this season, I took some time off with my family to decide where I will move next. Then I spoke with Sunil paaji.

I know the DNA of the club. BFC have been one of the top clubs since inception. "I know how much they want to achieve, and it's not just in football but other sports too.