Young Lions, empowered by international recruits, set sights on shocking Hougang

There is a sense of optimism surrounding the Young Lions in the Singapore Premier League this season, as the team has added a number of talented foreign players and experienced veterans to their squad.

Nearly halfway into the season, they have notched four wins – more than the previous two seasons combined (three in 52 games) – and are seventh in the nine-team league with 14 points after 15 matches. 

Adding to Japanese centre-back Jun Kobayashi and midfielder Kan Kobayashi, who joined the team last season as their first foreigners since 2016, were former Albirex Niigata central midfielder Kaisei Ogawa, 23, striker Itsuki Enomoto and Australian centre-back Rashid Hayek, 20.

The squad also contain former BG Tampines Rovers centre-back Ryaan Sanizal, ex-Lion City Sailors left-back Nur Adam Abdullah and winger Farhan Zulkifli.

Coach Nazri Nasir admitted these players have strengthened the squad and contributed to their recent results.

Ahead of their Sept 21 clash against Hougang United at the Jalan Besar Stadium, the 53-year-old told The Straits Times: “The inclusion of our foreign players has certainly added stability to the squad, particularly in our attacking play. Their presence has made a significant difference, addressing some gaps we have previously faced. 

“Off the field, they exemplify professionalism by engaging in extra training and providing guidance to younger players, which helps foster a strong team culture.”

Nazri is also buoyed by the “commendable efforts at individual and team levels” shown by the Young Lions during their 2-2 draw on Sept 14 against title challengers Tampines.

“While there have certainly been ups and downs, I’m feeling positive about this season,” he added.

“If they maintain their self-confidence, belief in their abilities and a positive attitude, I’m confident they can continue to showcase great performances in the league.”

Enomoto, who has 10 goals this season after joining from J3 League outfit Matsumoto Yamaga, revealed that he was attracted by the team’s “positive environment” during a training stint earlier this year.

The 24-year-old said via a translator: “I was drawn to the Young Lions project and fully understood the challenges of being part of a young squad. I was eager to embrace those challenges and contribute to the team’s success.”

Although his English is limited, he said he helps the team through his action on and off the pitch.

“While we communicate in limited English now, football is a universal language and it’s about building the level of understanding with my teammates,” he added. “This is done through our training sessions which will hopefully be translated on the pitch.”