Veteran players like Daniel Bennett, 39, (L) will still be able to play in the 2018 S.League. Photo: S.League The Football Association of Singapore’s (FAS) decision to impose age quotas on S.League clubs for the 2018 season has caused some unhappiness among veteran footballers affected by the changes, but the national governing body stressed on Monday (Dec 18) that the new competition rules do not discriminate against older players.

“We are not saying older players cannot play,” said FAS deputy president Bernard Tan during a media conference to announce changes to the 2018 S.League season.

“There are still 48 slots in the S.League for players over 30. Look at (former national striker) Aleksandar Duric who played football in his 30s. If we have a player like that, it would be perfect.”

The FAS unveiled its revamped S.League for 2018 on Monday, with major rule changes geared towards youth development. Under new competition rules, S.League clubs have to register at least six under-23 players in their squads, and eight have to be under-30. This leaves up to eight spots for players above the age of 30. The rules will be applicable to six local clubs: Balestier Khalsa, Geylang International, Home United, Hougang United, Tampines Rovers, Warriors FC.

According to the FAS, the 2017 S-League season had 26 footballers who were aged 31 and above, and that number will increase to 28 next season. With each club allowed up to eight players above 30 years old, that will bring the maximum number of above-30 players to 48.

FAS president Lim Kia Tong stressed that the age quotas are important to give younger players playing time and opportunities in the top-flight, and in turn fulfil the national sports association’s goal to develop talented footballers for the national team.

“Many of the players aged 22 to 25 have very little playing time. If we don’t cater to the Under-23 formula, you will see a gap, and that will not bode well for Singapore football,” said Mr Lim.

Mr Tan stressed that, in order for Singapore football to improve, the FAS and the local football fraternity will need to dig in their heels and embrace the changes.

He added: “One of the biggest problems in the existing model is that it doesn’t incentivise clubs to develop players. Every change is difficult. Is this a risk? Yes, but we have to try something different.”

The rules will be reviewed periodically, said the FAS.

The association will also work with players to prepare them for their post-football careers through courses in football administration and coaching.

Source:
courtesy of TODAY

by Low Lin Fhoong

If you have any stories or news that you would like to share with the global online community, please feel free to share it with us by contacting us directly at [email protected]