Viva Kerala FC

Chirag United Club Kerala was formed on 8 August 2004 in Kochi.{{cite web|url=https://khelnow.com/football/indian-football-five-clubs-we-wish-still-existed|title=Five Indian football clubs fans wish were still in existence|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210714173058/https://khelnow.com/football/indian-football-five-clubs-we-wish-still-existed|archive-date=14 July 2021|website=KhelNow.com|access-date=30 July 2021}}{{cite web|first=Hans|last=Schöggl|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesi/indiafound.html|title=India – List of Foundation Dates|access-date=17 August 2021|website=RSSSF|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211023194819/http://www.rsssf.com/tablesi/indiafound.html|archive-date=23 October 2021}} The club officially took off on 19 August in a ceremony at the FACT grounds. The team was predominantly formed by a group of businessmen who felt the need for the state's representation in country's domestic top flight league, the National Football League (NFL).{{Cite web|title=31 players selected for 'Viva Kerala'|url=http://imworld.rediff.com/sports/2004/apr/08viva.htm|access-date=2020-07-12|website=imworld.rediff.com|archive-date=12 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200712095400/http://imworld.rediff.com/sports/2004/apr/08viva.htm}} Viva Kerala's name is the result of a contest, won by Dr. P Ramakrishnan of Ernakulam. The club became registered with Ernakulam District Football Association.{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/2010/aug/10/viva-kerala-sees-ground-reality-bids-adieu-177150.html|title=Viva Kerala sees ground reality, bids adieu|date=10 August 2010|access-date=26 January 2020|website=newindianexpress.com|publisher=The New Indian Express|location=Kochi|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109064541/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/2010/aug/10/viva-kerala-sees-ground-reality-bids-adieu-177150.html}} Later known as "Chirag Kerala", the club won the 2005–06 season of Kerala State Football League,[https://www.rsssf.org/tablesi/india-keralachamp.html India – List of Kerala League Champions]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817160849/http://www.rsssf.com/tablesi/india-keralachamp.html |date=17 August 2021 }}. rsssf.com. RSSSF. Retrieved 17 August 2021. its only regional title. In September 2006, they emerged victorious in Tirur All-India Football Tournament in Tirur, beating Travancore Titanium XI 1–0.{{cite web|first=Arunava|last=Chaudhary|url=http://www.indianfootball.de/data/tirur.html|title=List of Winners/Runners-Up of the Tirur All-India Football Tournament: Kerala|website=indianfootball.de|publisher=Indian Football Network|access-date=17 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160314193147/http://www.indianfootball.de/data/tirur.html|archive-date=14 March 2016|url-status=dead}} They also reached the final of E. K. Nayanar Memorial Football Gold Cup in 2007 but lost at the end to the visiting Ghanaian club Nania Accra, by 3–0 margin.{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/sports/2007/apr/24foot.htm|title=FC Nania wins E. K. Nayanar Memorial Football Cup|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210824185603/https://www.rediff.com/sports/2007/apr/24foot.htm|archive-date=24 August 2021|website=Rediff.com|access-date=24 August 2021}}

In 2007, the opportunity for an NFL spot came in the way of Second Division NFL.{{Cite web|url=http://www.indianfootball.de/news/m200709.html|title=NEWS FOR THE MONTH OF September 2007 – Viva Kerala's preparations|website=indianfootball.de|publisher=Indian Football Network|date=September 2007|access-date=13 November 2021|archive-date=5 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205010129/http://www.indianfootball.de/news/m200709.html|url-status=dead|first=Arunava|last=Chaudhuri}} Viva Kerala surprised everyone by finishing second in its group and qualified for the final phase.{{Cite web|author=Nisanth V Easwar|url=https://www.goal.com/en-in/lists/i-league-how-newly-promoted-teams-have-performed/ma7hveltk8i91ieo2d5oos8jg|title=I-League: How newly-promoted teams have performed|publisher=Goal|date=10 September 2020|access-date=12 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210926143637/https://www.goal.com/en-in/lists/i-league-how-newly-promoted-teams-have-performed/ma7hveltk8i91ieo2d5oos8jg|archive-date=26 September 2021}} In the final phase, they finished as runners-up of the Second Division NFL to book their place in the I-League 2007–08 on 6 April 2007.{{cite news| url = http://www.indianfootball.de/seasons/2007-08il.html| work = IndianFootball.de| first1=Arunava |last1=Chaudhuri| title = 1st "ONGC" I-League — Division 1 2007/08: from 24.November 2007 upto 23.February 2008 all over the country| date = 24 November 2011| access-date = 24 November 2011| archive-date = 16 March 2014| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140316152349/http://www.indianfootball.de/seasons/2007-08il.html| url-status = dead}} The club along with Salgaocar, were relegated to 2nd division at the end of I-league 2007–08, for the first time in the league history.{{cite web |title=Salgaocar, Viva Kerala relegated from I-League |url=http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/sports/salgaocar-viva-kerala-relegated-from-i-league_10018495.html |website=theindian.com |publisher=Tha Indian |date=17 February 2008| access-date=14 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140717185553/http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/sports/salgaocar-viva-kerala-relegated-from-i-league_10018495.html |archive-date=17 July 2014 |location=Margao, Goa|url-status=dead}} In the next season, Viva Kerala were promoted to the 2009–10 I-League,{{Cite web|url=https://www.goal.com/en-in/lists/i-league-how-newly-promoted-teams-have-performed/ma7hveltk8i91ieo2d5oos8jg|title=I-League: How newly-promoted teams have performed|publisher=Goal|access-date=12 May 2021|archive-date=26 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210926143637/https://www.goal.com/en-in/lists/i-league-how-newly-promoted-teams-have-performed/ma7hveltk8i91ieo2d5oos8jg}}{{cite web|url=https://www.modernghana.com/sports/229467/2/senyo-dzisah-move-to-india.html|title=Senyo, Dzisah move to India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180808171620/https://www.modernghana.com/sports/229467/2/senyo-dzisah-move-to-india.html|archive-date=2018-08-08|work=Modern Ghana (Ghanasoccernet.com)}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/Reuben-Senyorsquos-plans-for-Viva-Kerala/article16516914.ece|title=Reuben Senyo's plans for Viva Kerala|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327163011/https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/Reuben-Senyorsquos-plans-for-Viva-Kerala/article16516914.ece|archive-date=2023-03-27|work=The Hindu|date=17 September 2009 }}{{cite web|url=https://www.modernghana.com/news/246421/senyo-sparkles-in-indian-league.html|title=Senyo sparkles in Indian league|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180808172117/https://www.modernghana.com/news/246421/senyo-sparkles-in-indian-league.html|archive-date=2018-08-08|work=Modern Ghana (Ghanasoccernet.com)}}{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2010/01/17/1749055/i-league-viva-ride-reuben-goal-to-win-at-home|title=I-League: Viva Ride Reuben Goal To Win At Home|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180808172410/http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2010/01/17/1749055/i-league-viva-ride-reuben-goal-to-win-at-home|archive-date=2018-08-08|website=Goal.com}} after finishing runners-up in 2009 I-League 2nd Division.{{cite web|title=National Football League Second Division|url=http://www.indianfootball.de/data/nfl2.html|website=indianfootball.de|archive-date=6 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211006205536/http://www.indianfootball.de/data/nfl2.html|url-status=dead}}[https://www.rsssf.org/tablesi/india2010.html Indian football results and table]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121022143130/http://www.rsssf.com/tablesi/india2010.html |date=22 October 2012 }}. Rsssf.com. Retrieved 31 July 2021.{{Cite web|first=Arunava|last=Chaudhuri|url=http://www.indianfootball.de/seasons/2008-09s.html|title=2008/09 Season in Indian Football|website=indianfootball.de|access-date=2 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210109183532/http://www.indianfootball.de/seasons/2008-09s.html|archive-date=9 January 2021|publisher=Indian Football Network|url-status=dead}} In 2010, it was announced that I-League clubs needed to complete the AFC club licensing criteria; Viva Kerala signed P. K. Kunhikrishnan (A-licensed coach) as the new head coach.{{cite web|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/sports/the-new-chirag-united-club-kerala|title=The new Chirag United Kerala Club|date=7 August 2011|first1=Arunava|last1=Chaudhuri|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817170701/https://www.sportskeeda.com/amp/sports/the-new-chirag-united-club-kerala|archive-date=17 August 2021|website=sportskeeda.com|publisher=Sportskeeda|access-date=17 August 2021}} In August 2011, Chirag Computers was announced as the to be new majority owners and the club name would change to Chirag United Club Kerala.{{Cite web|date=6 April 2013|first=Joseph|last=George|url=http://www.thehardtackle.com/2010/viva-kerala-ray-of-hope-for-kerala-football/|title=Viva Kerala : Ray of Hope For Kerala Football|website=The Hard Tackle|access-date=17 August 2021|archive-date=3 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210703004143/http://www.thehardtackle.com/2010/viva-kerala-ray-of-hope-for-kerala-football/}}

File:Pradeep and chintha.jpg

File:TKarma.jpg with Chirag after a match in 2011]]

In June 2011, Kolkata-based Chirag Computers bought the financially troubled Viva Kerala. They took over a 60% stake in the club while original owners retained a 40% stake. They also changed the name of the club to Chirag United Club Kerala.{{Cite web|date=8 May 2012|first=Vineeth|last=Krishnan|title=New owners for Chirag United Kerala?|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/New-owners-for-Chirag-United-Kerala/articleshow/13045346.cms|access-date=2020-06-29|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=30 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630035034/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/New-owners-for-Chirag-United-Kerala/articleshow/13045346.cms|url-status=live}} Chirag Computers have also said that they might move the team to Kolkata if they do not find a suitable stadium in Kerala.{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/article2299628.ece|title=Deal with KCA could see Chirag Kerala return to Kochi|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110909030925/http://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/article2299628.ece|archive-date=9 September 2011|website=thehindu.com|publisher=The Hindu|access-date=17 September 2021}} The name of the team was officially changed to Chirag United Club Kerala on 6 August 2011. While the new owners announced that team will be based in Kerala for the 2011–12 I-League, there were talks of shifting the team to Kolkata after the season. This would leave the state of Kerala without representation in the I-League.{{Cite web|first=Adwaidh|last=Rajan|agency=TNN|title=Kerala football back to where it belongs|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/kerala-football-back-to-where-it-belongs/articleshow/91307039.cms|website=The Times of India|date=4 May 2022|access-date=26 December 2022|archive-date=22 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322111926/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/kerala-football-back-to-where-it-belongs/articleshow/91307039.cms|url-status=live}} Many supporters of the club had come out strongly against this idea.

File:VivaDefence.jpg in 2011.]]

Chirag was eliminated from the Federation Cup in the group stages when they lost all three group D matches;{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/results-standings/176/federation-cup/group|title=Federation Cup 2011 standings|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603081756/http://www.goal.com/en-india/results-standings/176/federation-cup/group|archive-date=3 June 2013|website=Goal.com|access-date=17 September 2021}} Team coach K. P. Kunhikrishan was replaced by Sri Lankan manager Mohamed Nizam Packeer Ally.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/Ali-keen-to-prove-a-point-in-India/articleshow/10433286.cms|title=Ali keen to prove a point in India|website=The Times of India|agency=TNN|first=Biju Babu|last=Cyriac|date=21 October 2011|access-date=21 January 2021|archive-date=22 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322105849/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/Ali-keen-to-prove-a-point-in-India/articleshow/10433286.cms?from=mdr}}{{cite web|url=https://www.livemint.com/Leisure/xnKJleyLIrReFHjpIYSx9M/Suspects-vs-outsiders.html|date=19 October 2011|access-date=8 January 2023|title=Indian football: Suspects vs outsiders|first1=Mario|last1=Rodrigues|website=livemint.com|publisher=LiveMint News|location=Mumbai|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180601004022/https://www.livemint.com/Leisure/xnKJleyLIrReFHjpIYSx9M/Suspects-vs-outsiders.html|archive-date=1 June 2018}} He guided the team in I-League.{{Cite web|language=bn|url=https://www.sangbadpratidin.in/sports/football/former-sri-lanka-football-coach-pakir-ali-laments-economic-crisis/|title=ভেঙে পড়েছে অর্থনীতি, কাঁদছে জন্মভূমি, দেশের হাল দেখে চোখে জল শ্রীলঙ্কার 'বাঙালি' কোচের|trans-title=The economy is broken, the motherland is crying, Sri Lanka's 'Bengali' coach has tears in his eyes after seeing the condition of the country|website=sangbadpratidin.in|date=9 April 2022|publisher=Sangbad Pratidin|access-date=15 December 2023|archive-date=8 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208130543/https://www.sangbadpratidin.in/sports/football/former-sri-lanka-football-coach-pakir-ali-laments-economic-crisis/|first1=Krishanu|last1=Majumder}} Pakir was sacked in February after a poor run; Ananta Kumar Ghosh was appointed coach while Biswajit Bhattacharya was appointed technical director.{{cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/time-is-a-problem-but-mission-is-possible/article2920983.ece|title='Time is a problem but mission is possible'|publisher=The Hindu|website=thehindu.com|access-date=17 September 2021|date=22 February 2012|location=Kochi|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322104738/https://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/time-is-a-problem-but-mission-is-possible/article2920983.ece|archive-date=22 March 2023}} Chirag finished second to last at 12th in the 2011–12 I-League season, Pailan Arrows had finished 13th were exempted from relegation as a "developmental team", and so Chirag relegated.{{cite web|last=Noronha|first=Anselm|title=Chirag United Kerala 0–3 Pailan Arrows: CS Sabeeth's hat-trick sinks his former side into second division|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69619/chirag-united-club-kerala-vs-pailan-arrows/report|publisher=Goal|access-date=31 August 2012|archive-date=24 January 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130124170257/http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69619/chirag-united-club-kerala-vs-pailan-arrows/report}}{{cite web|last=Noronha|first=Anselm|title=HAL Bangalore 1–2 Pailan Arrows: Allwyn scores late in his side's second successive win|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69667/hal-bangalore-vs-pailan-arrows/report|publisher=Goal|access-date=31 August 2012|archive-date=30 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120630232949/http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69667/hal-bangalore-vs-pailan-arrows/report}}{{cite web |url=http://the-aiff.com/pages/tournament/teamstanding.php?tournamentdetail=75 |title=:::: The Aiff :::: |access-date=2012-07-05 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120719040025/http://www.the-aiff.com/pages/tournament/teamstanding.php?tournamentdetail=75 |archive-date=19 July 2012 }} I League table 2011-12{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/article3353738.ece|title=Sabeeth hat-trick pushes Chirag out|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120630190954/http://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/article3353738.ece|archive-date=30 June 2012|website=thehindu.com|publisher=The Hindu|access-date=17 September 2021}}{{cite web |title=Salgaocar, Viva Kerala relegated from I-League |url=http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/sports/salgaocar-viva-kerala-relegated-from-i-league_10018495.html |website=Tha Indian |access-date=14 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140717185553/http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/sports/salgaocar-viva-kerala-relegated-from-i-league_10018495.html |archive-date=17 July 2014 }} Though in that season, they achieved fame after giving a tough fight to Campeonato Brasileiro Série A club Botafogo in their 1–0 defeat at a group stage match in 2012 IFA Shield. Players may have had difficulty being paid when Chirag Computers may not have released sponsorship money to the club, and the reason why club got dissolved.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/136/india/2012/05/14/3102700/unpaid-dues-to-players-and-club-haunt-chirag-united-kerala|title=Unpaid dues to players and club haunt Chirag United Kerala|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120618113644/http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/136/india/2012/05/14/3102700/unpaid-dues-to-players-and-club-haunt-chirag-united-kerala|archive-date=18 June 2012|website=Goal.com|access-date=17 September 2021}}{{cite web|last1=Sengupta|first1=Somnath|title=Indian Club Football: How Financially Sustainable Is Football in India?|url=http://www.thehardtackle.com/2011/indian-club-football-how-financially-sustainable-is-football-in-india/|website=thehardtackle.com|publisher=The Hard Tackle|date=8 July 2011|access-date=11 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150114125910/http://www.thehardtackle.com/2011/indian-club-football-how-financially-sustainable-is-football-in-india/|archive-date=14 January 2015}}{{cite web|last1=Ganguly|first1=Abhishek |title=AIFF disbands Pailan Arrows outfit|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/i-league/AIFF-disbands-Pailan-Arrows-outfit/articleshow/22149611.cms|work=The Times of India|location=Kolkata, West Bengal|date=30 August 2013|access-date=11 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140920163058/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/i-league/AIFF-disbands-Pailan-Arrows-outfit/articleshow/22149611.cms|archive-date=20 September 2014|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last1=Ajgoankar|first1=Ashlesh|title=Indian Football: Can Kerala Produce Next I.M. Vijayan?|url=http://www.thehardtackle.com/2013/indian-football-can-kerala-produce-next-i-m-vijayan/|website=thehardtackle.com|publisher=The Hard Tackle|date=18 January 2013|access-date=11 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141101110236/http://www.thehardtackle.com/2013/indian-football-can-kerala-produce-next-i-m-vijayan/|archive-date=1 November 2014}}

File:Chirag United Club Kerala.jpg used after Chirag take-over in 2012]]

The Chirag crest was very colourful. It shows a yellow shield with the words "Chirag United Kerala", which is imposed over a coconut tree and a soccer ball.{{cite web|last=Noronha|first=Anselm|title=Chirag United Kerala 0–3 Pailan Arrows: CS Sabeeth's hat-trick sinks his former side into second division|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69619/chirag-united-club-kerala-vs-pailan-arrows/report|publisher=Goal|access-date=31 August 2012|archive-date=24 January 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130124170257/http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69619/chirag-united-club-kerala-vs-pailan-arrows/report|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.goalzz.com/?team=6945|title=Team profile — Chirag Kerala/Viva Kerala Football Club|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215083103/https://m.goalzz.com/default.aspx?team=6945|archive-date=15 December 2023|work=Goalzz.com|access-date=15 December 2023}}

{{Main|EMS Stadium}}

File:Kozhikode_EMS_Stadium.jpg

Ever since their creation Chirag United Kerala have used multiple stadiums in Kerala. For their first three I-League seasons Chirag used the Municipal Corporation Stadium which holds a capacity of 80,000 in Kozhikode,{{cite web |last=Srivastava |first=Ayush |title=Chirag United Kerala 0-3 Sporting Clube de Goa – The Flaming Oranje brush aside Nizam Packeer Ali's side |url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69640/chirag-united-club-kerala-vs-sporting-clube-de-goa/report |publisher=Goal |access-date=19 May 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120208111117/http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69640/chirag-united-club-kerala-vs-sporting-clube-de-goa/report |archive-date=8 February 2012 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/65453/prayag-united-vs-chirag-united-club-kerala/lineup-stats|title=Prayag United vs Chirag United Club Kerala Lineups and Statistics|access-date=25 October 2011|publisher=Goal|archive-date=24 January 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130124103306/http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/65453/prayag-united-vs-chirag-united-club-kerala/lineup-stats}}{{cite web |url=http://www.worldstadiums.com/asia/countries/india.shtml |title=Stadiums in India |publisher=World Stadiums |access-date=2014-07-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110924095432/http://www.worldstadiums.com/asia/countries/india.shtml |archive-date=24 September 2011 |url-status=dead }} and Jawahar Municipal Stadium which holds a capacity of 30,000 in Kannur.{{cite news|title=Viva Kerala Hope To Stay in Kerala; Club Fans Ridicule Idea of Shifting Base|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2011/07/02/2556395/i-league-viva-kerala-hope-to-stay-in-kerala-club-fans|access-date=3 February 2017|publisher=Goal|archive-date=30 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190330104852/https://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2011/07/02/2556395/i-league-viva-kerala-hope-to-stay-in-kerala-club-fans}}

File:Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (Kochi).jpg]]

They then after getting bought by Chirag Computers decided to move to the Jawarharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi which boasts a capacity of 70,000 and has working floodlights. They played all their home games of 2011–12 I-League at the Jawarharlal Nehru International Stadium.

Chiang United Kerala shared rivalries with other Kerala-based clubs including Kerala Police FC, SBI Kerala,{{cite news|first=Tennyson|last=Rayson|title=Future tense for state club champs, SBI Kerala|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/future-tense-for-state-club-champs-sbi-kerala/articleshow/58140115.cms|work=The Times of India|location=Kochi|date=12 April 2017|access-date=15 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181030055451/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/future-tense-for-state-club-champs-sbi-kerala/articleshow/58140115.cms|archive-date=30 October 2018|url-status=live}} FC Kochin, Travancore Titanium XI and Quartz Calicut,{{Cite web|author=Nisanth V Easwar|date=12 May 2020|title=Down the memory lane: The magnificent Kerala Police of the 1980-90s|url=https://www.goal.com/en-in/amp/news/indian-football-kerala-police-federation-cup/1ljikndkrvf0c1glbrfuh9ujnb|access-date=16 August 2020|publisher=Goal|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210220160837/https://www.goal.com/en-in/amp/news/indian-football-kerala-police-federation-cup/1ljikndkrvf0c1glbrfuh9ujnb|archive-date=20 February 2021}}{{Cite web|author=Ashwin Muralidharan|date=13 May 2020|title=Indian Football: Legends from the 'football mad' state of Kerala {{!}} Goal.com|url=https://www.goal.com/en-in/lists/indian-football-legends-kerala-vijayan/hqt8lhaa0df21fa8rarnr86gw|access-date=4 January 2021|publisher=Goal|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210714110001/https://www.goal.com/en-in/lists/indian-football-legends-kerala-vijayan/hqt8lhaa0df21fa8rarnr86gw|archive-date=14 July 2021}}{{Cite news|author=Rayson P. Tennyson|title=How Kerala shrunk football to make it its own|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/keralas-small-football-in-sevens-heaven/articleshow/70905729.cms|access-date=2021-01-04|work=The Times of India|date=3 September 2019|archive-date=16 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210816163300/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/keralas-small-football-in-sevens-heaven/articleshow/70905729.cms|url-status=live}} whom they faced in both the domestic and regional leagues.

The club was established in 2004 by a group of businessmen with an objective to represent Kerala in higher circles of domestic football in India.{{cite web|date=25 September 2017|first1=Joe|last1=Williams|url=https://khelnow.com/football/goa-maha-derby-i-league|title=The Goa and Maha Derby: A thing past in I-League|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210720065558/https://khelnow.com/football/goa-maha-derby-i-league|archive-date=20 July 2021|website=khelnow.com|publisher=Khel Now News|access-date=20 July 2021}} Interestingly, the name of the club was arrived upon through a public contest organised by the promoters of the club.{{Cite web|first=Sukalp|last=Sharma|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/archive/indias-biggest-league/626797/|title=India's biggest league|date=31 May 2010|access-date=16 July 2021|work=The Financial Express|location=India|archive-date=18 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718090105/https://www.financialexpress.com/archive/indias-biggest-league/626797/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|title=Departments' League — A solution to many problems|url=https://englisharchives.mathrubhumi.com/sports/features/english-news-1.916067|website=englisharchives.mathrubhumi.com|publisher=Mathrubhumi|location=Kochi|date=8 March 2016|first=M. M. Jafar|last=Khan|access-date=28 November 2022|archive-date=4 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804042211/https://englisharchives.mathrubhumi.com/sports/features/english-news-1.916067}}

The club was run by Musli Power X-tra Kunnath Pharmaceuticals. In July 2011, Chirag Computers came in and brought full stake in the club, changing the name to "Chirag United Club Kerala".{{cite web|first=Arunava|last=Chaudhuri|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/sports/the-new-chirag-united-club-kerala#aoh=16140782539491&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&_tf=From%20%251%24s|title=The new Chirag United Club Kerala|publisher=Sportskeeda|website=sportskeeda.com|date=7 August 2011|access-date=23 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817170701/https://www.sportskeeda.com/sports/the-new-chirag-united-club-kerala|archive-date=17 August 2021}}{{cite web|first=Kratik|last=Malhotra|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2011/08/07/2608448/i-league-viva-kerala-renamed-as-chirag-united-kerala-its-turning-|title=I-League: Viva Kerala Renamed As Chirag United Kerala – It's Turning into An Absolute Joke|publisher=Goal|date=7 August 2011|access-date=24 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160317110218/http://m.goal.com/s/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2011/08/07/2608448/i-league-viva-kerala-renamed-as-chirag-united-kerala-its-turning-|archive-date=17 March 2016|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.thehardtackle.com/2011/prayag-united-sc-team-analysis-and-season-preview-2011-12/|title=Prayag United SC team analysis and season preview 2011–12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171111025249/http://www.thehardtackle.com/2011/prayag-united-sc-team-analysis-and-season-preview-2011-12/|archive-date=11 November 2017|website=thehardtackle.com|publisher=The Hard Tackle|location=Kolkata|date=9 September 2011|first1=Sachin|last1=Madaan|access-date=6 November 2021}}

{{category see also|Chirag United Club Kerala players}}

The following foreign players of Viva Kerala have been capped at senior/youth international level, with their respective countries. Years in brackets indicate their spells at the club.

• {{flagicon|BUL}} Georji Ventseslavov Bizev (2006–2007){{cite web|url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/sports/in-the-city-18-08-2006/cid/1064151|title=In The City — 18-08-2006: Bizev for Chirag United|date=18 August 2006|access-date=26 January 2020|website=telegraphindia.com|publisher=The Telegraph India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126090829/https://www.telegraphindia.com/sports/in-the-city-18-08-2006/cid/1064151|archive-date=26 January 2024}}
• {{flagicon|GHA}} Yaw Amankwah Mireku (2007–2008){{cite web|url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/06/12/stories/2007061210252200.htm|title=Viva Kerala signs three Ghana players|website=thehindu.com|publisher=The Hindu|location=Kochi|date=12 June 2007|access-date=27 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104051150/http://www.hindu.com/2007/06/12/stories/2007061210252200.htm|archive-date=4 November 2012}}{{citation needed|date=April 2025}}
• {{flagicon|GHA}} Wisdom Abbey (2007–2008){{cite web|url=https://m.footballdatabase.eu/en/player/details/111409-wisdom-abbey|title=Player profile – Career statistics: Wisdom ABBEY|access-date=27 March 2023|website=FootballDatabase.eu|archive-date=27 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327162001/https://www.footballdatabase.eu/en/player/details/111409-wisdom-abbey}}
• {{flagicon|THA}} Wisoot Bunpeng (2009){{Cite news|agency=Press Trust of India|title=Viva Kerala hold Mahindra 1–1 |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2009-11-06/top-stories/28088239_1_steven-dias-mahindra-united-mohammad-rafi |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811033413/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2009-11-06/top-stories/28088239_1_steven-dias-mahindra-united-mohammad-rafi |url-status=dead |archive-date=11 August 2011 |website=The Times of India|date=6 November 2009 |access-date=4 February 2010 }}
• {{flagicon|KEN}} Peter Opiyo (2009–2010){{cite web|last=Strack-Zimmermann|first=Benjamin|url=https://www.national-football-teams.com/player/30358/Peter_Opiyo_Odhiambo.html|title=NFT player — National team & Club appearances: Opiyo Odhiambo, Peter|publisher=National Football Teams|access-date=18 May 2018|archive-date=23 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211223214930/http://www.national-football-teams.com/player/30358/Peter_Opiyo_Odhiambo.html|website=national-football-teams.com}}
• {{flagicon|GHA}} Charles Dzisah (2009–2011){{Cite news|url=http://www.modernghana.com/news/229467/2/senyo-dzisah-move-to-india.html|title=Senyo, Dzisah move to India|website=modernghana.com|publisher=Modern Ghana|agency=GSN|date=25 July 2009|access-date=26 November 2022|language=en-gb|archive-date=18 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118212239/https://www.modernghana.com/sports/229467/senyo-dzisah-move-to-india.html}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.lequipesportive.redheberg.com/spip.php?article20|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130216172436/http://www.lequipesportive.redheberg.com/spip.php?article20|url-status=dead|archive-date=2013-02-16|title=L'Equipe Sportive — Charles DZISAH, Un togolais dans le championnat i…|date=2013-02-16|work=lequipesportive.redheberg.com|language=fr|access-date=2018-05-22}}
• {{flagicon|NGA}} Bello Razaq (2009–2012){{cite web|url=https://www.footballdatabase.eu/en/player/details/140880-bello-razaq|title=Player profile – Club career – Season statistics: Bello RAZAQ|access-date=29 September 2023|website=footballdatabase.eu|publisher=FootballDatabase Europe|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240102053330/https://www.footballdatabase.eu/en/player/details/140880-bello-razaq|archive-date=2 January 2024}}
• {{flagicon|TIB}} Karma Tsewang (2010–2011){{Cref2|nb 1}}{{cite web|url=https://www.worldfootball.net/teams/chirag-united/10/|title=Chirag United Club Kerala (Viva Kerala) » Players from A–Z|website=WorldFootball.net|access-date=31 July 2021|archive-date=21 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230321051344/https://www.worldfootball.net/teams/chirag-united/10/}}
• {{flagicon|SLE}} Mohamed Kallon (2011){{cite web|url=https://www.footmercato.net/a7414245072531306916-que-devient-mohamed-kallon|title=Que devient Mohamed Kallon?|trans-title=What becomes of Mohamed Kallon?|language=fr|date=28 August 2011|access-date=26 November 2022|first=Khaled|last=Karouri|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230426084658/https://www.footmercato.net/a7414245072531306916-que-devient-mohamed-kallon|archive-date=26 April 2023}}{{cite web|url=https://m.footballdatabase.eu/en/player/details/1573-mohamed-kallon|title=Mohamed Kallon – Career Statistics – Titles Won – Football Database|website=footballdatabase.eu|access-date=26 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230426165524/https://www.footballdatabase.eu/en/player/details/1573-mohamed-kallon|archive-date=26 April 2023}}
• {{flagicon|DEN}} Simon Azoulay Pedersen (2011–2012){{citation needed|date=April 2025}}
• {{flagicon|GHA}} Isaac Boakye (2012){{cite web|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/indian-football/indian-football-transfer-season-201213-updated|title=Indian Football: Transfer Season 2012/13 Updated|date=3 December 2012|access-date=15 July 2022|website=sportskeeda.com|publisher=Sportskeeda|first=Arunava|last=Chaudhuri|archive-date=21 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230321155010/https://www.sportskeeda.com/indian-football/indian-football-transfer-season-201213-updated}}

{{Incomplete list|date=January 2024}}

{{updated|matches played 24 April 2007}}

{{further|Chirag United Club Kerala seasons}}

• National Football League II
• Runners-up (1): 2006–07{{cite web |title=National Football League Second Division |first=Arunava

|last=Chaudhuri

|url=http://www.indianfootball.de/data/nfl2.html |website=indianfootball.de |access-date=16 July 2021 |archive-date=26 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026081440/http://www.indianfootball.de/data/nfl2.html |url-status=dead }}

• I-League 2nd Division
• Runners-up (1): 2009{{Cite web|url=http://www.kolkatafootball.com/i-league-2nd-divn-2009.html|title=ONGC I-LEAGUE (2nd Division) 2008—2009|website=kolkatafootball.com|access-date=15 February 2021|archive-date=12 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210512235837/https://www.kolkatafootball.com/i-league-2nd-divn-2009.html}}{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/national/india/i-league-2nd-division/2009/final-group/r8363/|title=2009 I-League 2nd Division results|website=soccerway.com|access-date=23 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118223522/https://us.soccerway.com/national/india/i-league-2nd-division/2009/final-group/r8363/|archive-date=18 November 2021}}
• Kerala Football League
• Champions (1): 2005–06{{cite web|first=Hans|last=Schöggl|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesi/india-keralachamp.html|title=India – List of Kerala League Champions|access-date=17 August 2021|website=RSSSF|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817160849/http://www.rsssf.com/tablesi/india-keralachamp.html|archive-date=17 August 2021}}
• Runners-up (1): 2004–05
• Third place (1): 2007{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesi/india-reg07.html|title=India 2007 Regional Championships|date=14 February 2019|first1=Arunava|last1=Chaudhuri|work=RSSSF|access-date=26 September 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250220145303/https://www.rsssf.org/tablesi/india-reg07.html|archive-date=20 February 2025}}
• Kerala State Club Football Championship
• Runners-up (1): 2005{{cite web|last=Chaudhuri|first=Arunava|url=http://www.indianfootball.de/data/kscl.html|title=List of Champions of the Kerala State Club Football Championship|publisher=Indian Football Network|website=Indianfootball.de|access-date=17 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022072754/http://www.indianfootball.de/data/kscl.html|archive-date=22 October 2020|url-status=dead}}
• National Football League III {{small|(South Zone)}}
• Champions (1): 2006–07{{cite web|first=Arunava|last=Chaudhuri|title=National Football League Third Division|url=http://www.indianfootball.de/seasons/2006-07nl3.html|website=indianfootball.de|publisher=Indian Football Network|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211129183608/http://www.indianfootball.de/seasons/2006-07nl3.html|archive-date=29 November 2021|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|title=NFL Third Division 2006–07|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesi/india07.html|access-date=11 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211129184824/http://www.rsssf.com/tablesi/india07.html|archive-date=29 November 2021|website=RSSSF|url-status=live}}

• All-India Invitational Cup of Thiruvananthapuram
• Champions (1): 2005{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/sreedharan-will-coach-viva-kerala/articleshow/1956353.cms|title=Sreedharan will coach 'Viva Kerala'|agency=PTI|location=Kochi|website=The Times of India|date=4 September 2006|access-date=27 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109070523/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/sreedharan-will-coach-viva-kerala/articleshow/1956353.cms|archive-date=9 January 2024}}
• Tirur All-India Football Tournament
• Champions (1): 2006{{Cite web|first=Arunava|last=Chaudhuri|url=http://www.indianfootball.de/seasons/2005-06s.html|title=2005/06 Season in Indian Football|website=indianfootball.de|access-date=2 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210109192919/http://www.indianfootball.de/seasons/2005-06s.html|archive-date=9 January 2021|publisher=Indian Football Network|url-status=dead}}
• E. K. Nayanar Memorial Gold Cup
• Runners-up (1): 2007{{cite web|first=Arunava|last=Chaudhuri|url=http://www.indianfootball.de/seasons/2007nayanargoldcup.html|title=1st E.K. Nayanar Memorial Gold Cup: 2007|website=indianfootball.de|publisher=Indian Football Network|access-date=17 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160822022931/http://www.indianfootball.de/seasons/2007nayanargoldcup.html|archive-date=22 August 2016|url-status=dead}}

• History of Chirag United Club Kerala
• List of football clubs in Kerala
• Sports in Kerala

{{Cnote2 Begin}}

{{Cnote2|nb 1|Represented Tibet national football team in CONIFA tournaments internationally.}}

{{Cnote2 End}}

Cited sources

{{Reflist}}

Bibliography

• {{cite book |last1=Kapadia |first1=Novy |year=2017|title=Barefoot to Boots: The Many Lives of Indian Football |publisher=Penguin Random House |isbn=978-0-143-42641-7 }}
• {{cite book |last1=Martinez| first1=Dolores |last2=Mukharji |first2=Projit B|year=2009|title=Football: From England to the World: The Many Lives of Indian Football |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=nbzhAQAAQBAJ&q=kerala+footballer+in+Burma |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-138-88353-6 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702174505/https://books.google.co.in/books?id=nbzhAQAAQBAJ&dq=kerala+footballer+in+Burma&source=gbs_navlinks_s |archive-date=2 July 2022 }}
• {{cite book|title=Soccer in South Asia: Empire, Nation, Diaspora|year=2001|publisher=Frank Cass Publishers|location=London, United Kingdom|isbn=978-0-7146-8170-2|page=33|last1=Dineo|first1=Paul|last2=Mills|first2=James|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=71JHZiiP3hoC|archive-date=25 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220725072732/https://books.google.co.in/books/about/Soccer_in_South_Asia.html?id=71JHZiiP3hoC&source=kp_book_description&redir_esc=y}}
• {{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QbUFaAEACAAJ|title=History of Indian Football: Upto 2009–10|first=Nirmal|last=Nath|year=2011|publisher=Readers Service|isbn=9788187891963|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220722172604/https://books.google.co.in/books/about/History_of_Indian_Football.html?id=QbUFaAEACAAJ&source=kp_book_description&redir_esc=y|archive-date=22 July 2022}}
• {{cite book|first1=Boria|last1=Majumdar|first2=Kausik|last2=Bandyopadhyay|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=V-sMYjZkpigC&pg=PA69|title=A Social History Of Indian Football: Striving To Score|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210629140637/https://books.google.com/books?id=V-sMYjZkpigC&pg=PA69|archive-date=29 June 2021|publisher=Routledge|date=2006|isbn=9780415348355}}
• {{cite book|first1=Jaydeep|last1=Basu|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QeovtKLi-1sC|title=Stories from Indian Football|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011131939/https://books.google.co.in/books/about/Stories_from_Indian_Football.html?id=QeovtKLi-1sC&source=kp_book_description&redir_esc=y|archive-date=11 October 2022|publisher=UBS Publishers' Distributors|date=2003|isbn=9788174764546}}
• {{Cite book |title=THE BEST WAY FORWARD FOR INDIA'S FOOTBALL |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KdH7DwAAQBAJ |first=S. S. |last=Shreekumar |date=15 August 2020 |publisher=HSRA Publications |isbn=9788194721697 |access-date=3 February 2023 |archive-date=4 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204051238/https://www.google.com/books/edition/THE_BEST_WAY_FORWARD/KdH7DwAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=0 |pages=244 }}
• {{cite book |title=India's Football Dream |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=-V6HDwAAQBAJ&q=national+association+manmatha+ganguly |publisher=SAGE Publications India |last1=Sharma |first1=Nikhil Paramjit |last2=Gupta |first2=Shantanu |date=4 February 2019 |access-date=4 October 2022 |archive-date=4 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221004041830/https://books.google.com/books?id=-V6HDwAAQBAJ&dq=national+association+manmatha+ganguly&source=gbs_navlinks_s |isbn=9789353283063 }}

Further reading

• {{cite web|last=Bhutani|first=Rahul|title=Chirag United and United Sikkim: The Two Extremes of Indian Football|url=http://www.thehardtackle.com/2012/chirag-united-and-united-sikkim-the-two-extremes-of-indian-football/|website=thehardtackle.com|date=14 May 2018|access-date=16 September 2012|publisher=The Hard Tackle|archive-date=14 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120714070941/http://www.thehardtackle.com/2012/chirag-united-and-united-sikkim-the-two-extremes-of-indian-football/}}
• {{cite web|title=Football — the passion play in Kolkata|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/football--the-passion-play-in-kolkata/211371-55.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120111155154/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/football--the-passion-play-in-kolkata/211371-55.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=11 January 2012|website=ibnlive.in|publisher=IBN Live|date=13 December 2011|access-date=11 August 2014}}
• {{cite web|url=http://footballkerala.com/2009/06/16/viva-kerala-signs-british-born-patrick-sisupalan/|title=Viva Kerala signs british born Patrick Sisupalan|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110816140148/http://footballkerala.com/2009/06/16/viva-kerala-signs-british-born-patrick-sisupalan/|archive-date=16 August 2011|website=footballkerala.com|access-date=16 June 2009}}
• {{Cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/sport/2009/aug/13/can-viva-kerala-prove-their-mettle-this-time-77208.html|title=Can Viva Kerala prove their mettle this time?|website=The New Indian Express|date=15 May 2012 |access-date=11 March 2021|archive-date=28 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230428052341/https://www.newindianexpress.com/sport/2009/aug/13/can-viva-kerala-prove-their-mettle-this-time-77208.html}}
• {{cite web|url=http://www.indianfootball.com/en/news/articleId/1501|title=Viva Kerala pulls out from IFA Shield|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201121223856/http://www.indianfootball.com/en/news/articleId/1501|archive-date=21 November 2020|website=indianfootball.com|access-date=11 March 2022}}
• {{cite web|url=https://www.modernghana.com/news/246421/senyo-sparkles-in-indian-league.html|title=Senyo sparkles in Indian league|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180808172117/https://www.modernghana.com/news/246421/senyo-sparkles-in-indian-league.html|archive-date=8 August 2018|date=30 October 2009|publisher=Modern Ghana|website=ghanasoccernet.com}}
• {{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2010/01/17/1749055/i-league-viva-ride-reuben-goal-to-win-at-home|title=I-League: Viva Ride Reuben Goal To Win At Home|first=Rahul|last=Sengupta|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180808172410/http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2010/01/17/1749055/i-league-viva-ride-reuben-goal-to-win-at-home|archive-date=8 August 2018|date=17 January 2010|website=Goal.com}}
• {{Cite web|title=Down the memory lane: The magnificent Kerala Police of the 1980–90s|url=https://www.goal.com/en-in/news/indian-football-kerala-police-federation-cup/1ljikndkrvf0c1glbrfuh9ujnb|access-date=2021-09-05|website=Goal.com|archive-date=5 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905120722/https://www.goal.com/en-in/news/indian-football-kerala-police-federation-cup/1ljikndkrvf0c1glbrfuh9ujnb|first=Nisanth V|last=Easwar|date=12 May 2020}}
• {{Cite news|title=For TTPL, football and volleyball teams are a distant dream|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2020/feb/20/for-ttpl-football-and-volleyball-teams-are-a-distant-dream-2105866.html|first=Ramu|last=R|date=20 February 2020|access-date=2022-08-01|location=Thiruvananthapuram|newspaper=The New Indian Express|archive-date=5 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905120718/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2020/feb/20/for-ttpl-football-and-volleyball-teams-are-a-distant-dream-2105866.html|agency=Express News Service}}
• {{cite news|title=Dempo rope in Anil Kumar|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-06-18/top-stories/29674079_1_dempo-custodio-almeida-vasco-sc|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419055636/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-06-18/top-stories/29674079_1_dempo-custodio-almeida-vasco-sc|url-status=dead|archive-date=19 April 2012|agency=PTI|location=Margao|website=The Times of India|date=18 June 2011}}
• {{cite web|last=George|first=Arun|title=Chirag United Kerala regains its striker|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/sport/football/chirag-united-kerala-regains-its-striker-671|work=Deccan Chronicle|access-date=6 May 2012|archive-date=11 December 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111211080636/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/sport/football/chirag-united-kerala-regains-its-striker-671}}
• {{cite web|last=Noronha|first=Anselm|title=Sporting Clube De Goa 2–0 Chirag United Kerala – James Moga And Victorino Fernandes Score for the Home Side|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69369/sporting-clube-de-goa-vs-chirag-united-club-kerala/report|publisher=goal.com|access-date=6 May 2012|archive-date=22 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120122132349/http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69369/sporting-clube-de-goa-vs-chirag-united-club-kerala/report}}
• {{cite web|title=Chirag United Kerala 1–1 Salgaocar SC – Packeer Ali's Side Pick A Point Against The Defending Champions|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69383/chirag-united-club-kerala-vs-salgaocar-sc/report|publisher=goal.com|access-date=6 May 2012|archive-date=3 February 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120203023319/http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69383/chirag-united-club-kerala-vs-salgaocar-sc/report}}
• {{cite web|title=Chirag Kerala 1–3 Mohun Bagan: Okolie comes to the rescue again as the Mariners grab all three points|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69633/chirag-united-club-kerala-vs-mohun-bagan/report|publisher=goal.com|access-date=6 May 2012|archive-date=1 May 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120501051529/http://www.goal.com/en-india/match/69633/chirag-united-club-kerala-vs-mohun-bagan/report}}
• {{cite web|title=Lajong, Pune FC in I-League|date=19 April 2009|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2009-04-19/top-stories/28017183_1_pune-fc-salgaocar-shillong-lajong|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203060447/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2009-04-19/top-stories/28017183_1_pune-fc-salgaocar-shillong-lajong|url-status=dead|archive-date=3 December 2013|website=The Times of India|agency=TNN|access-date=20 October 2013}}
• {{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/United-SC-ink-deal-with-new-sponsor/articleshow/9474511.cms|title=United SC ink deal with new sponsor|newspaper=The Times of India|publisher=Times of India|location=Kolkata|first1=Arup|last1=Chatterjee|date=4 August 2011 |agency=TNN|access-date=19 February 2021|archive-date=15 April 2022|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220415161440/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/United-SC-ink-deal-with-new-sponsor/articleshow/9474511.cms}}
• {{Cite web|title=Josco FC to build soccer city|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/sport/2010/mar/26/josco-fc-to-build-soccer-city-142534.html|date=26 March 2010|location=Kochi|access-date=2021-09-23|website=newindianexpress.com|publisher=The New Indian Express|archive-date=24 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210924170722/https://www.newindianexpress.com/sport/2010/mar/26/josco-fc-to-build-soccer-city-142534.html|url-status=dead}}
• {{cite web|last=Ghoshal|first=Amoy|title=Players To Watch: India Under-23's Saba Saleel|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/2716/players-to-watch/2011/07/01/2555174/players-to-watch-india-under-23s-saba-saleel|work=Goal.com|access-date=5 May 2012|archive-date=15 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121015122048/http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/2716/players-to-watch/2011/07/01/2555174/players-to-watch-india-under-23s-saba-saleel|date=1 July 2011}}

{{Portal bar|India|Association football}}

• [https://int.soccerway.com/teams/india/viva-kerala/8256/ Chirag United Kerala] at Soccerway
• [https://www.worldfootball.net/teams/chirag-united/ Chirag United Kerala] at WorldFootball.net
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20220505143738/https://everythingforfootball.in/club/chirag-united-club-kerala/ Chirag United Kerala] at Everything For Football (archived 5 May 2022)
• {{Twitter|chiragkerala}}
• [https://globalsportsarchive.com/team/soccer/chirag-united-kerala/1696/ Chirag United Kerala] at Global Sports Archive
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20091016233459/http://footballkerala.com/category/kerala-football-clubs/viva-kerala-fc/ Viva Kerala FC] at FootballKerala.com (archived 16 October 2009)

{{I-League}}

{{Football in Kerala}}

{{Kerala Sports}}

Category:Football clubs in Kerala

Category:Association football clubs established in 2004

Category:I-League clubs

Category:I-League 2 clubs

Category:2004 establishments in Kerala

Category:Association football clubs disestablished in 2012

Category:2012 disestablishments in India