Karnataka’s promising defensive midfielder Macarton Louis Nickson has been called up by chief national coach Manolo Marquez for India’s forthcoming all-important Asian Cup qualifier against Bangladesh to be held on 25th March in Shillong.

The 21-year-old midfielder is being called the 'find-out' of the ISL this season for his excellent ball control and defending quality. The product of FC Bengaluru academy joined NorthEast United FC in 2023 and enjoyed a breakthrough ISL campaign last season when he made 14 appearances. 

He was part of the club's Durand Cup win last summer and has become a regular fixture in the starting XI during the ongoing ISL season, recording 20 matches. Playing as a defensive midfielder, he has also scored two goals to go with his solitary assist. 

NEUFC head coach Juan Pedro Benali singled him out for praise after the club’s 3-0 win away to Mumbai City FC at the end of December. “He is a great young player but at the same time, he needs to have his feet on the floor,” Benali cautioned.