New Delhi, Nov 26 (IANS): Bharat FC has signed its first player for the 2014-15 I-League season, starting Jan 17, acquiring New Zealand international Kris Bright on a season-long contract.

Son of 1982 World Cupper David Bright, 28-year-old Kris is a proven goal-getter with a solid goal-scoring record in every league he has played, including Australian A-League, the Dutch first division and top-flight football in Norway, Finland and Hungary. Bright spent the 2013-14 season with English Conference Premier side Lincoln City FC.

Amit Kalyani, executive director of the Kalyani Group and managing director of Bharat FC, said it was Bright's sharpness and awareness in front of the goal that drew the club towards him.

"Kris is a prolific goal-scorer and someone who can ably lead the line as we aim to start our first season strongly. I am sure his Indian stint will be full of goals too," he said.

"I was very excited about coming to India after speaking to coach Stuart (Watkiss) and getting to know more about the project. Leading the line is something that I immensely enjoy and I hope to perform really well for Bharat FC," Bright said.

"I have watched Kris a few times in England and it is apparent that he is a very fine striker. He manages to get into good positions, is very strong aerially and is sharp in front of goal. I am sure he will be a profitable asset for us in the I-League," said Stuart Watkiss, Bharat FC's head-coach.