S.League's rule reversal leaves players scrambling for a club

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TONGUE IN CHEEK

The S.League’s about-turn on new age-restriction rules for next year’s season has left players who are older than 30 wondering if they have missed out.

There are only six local football clubs left in next year’s 10-team competition.

In a statement on Saturday evening (Nov 22), the S.League reversed its decision to allow the clubs to sign a maximum of five players aged 30 and above.

If implemented, the changes would have affected more than 40 footballers aged above 30.

Many are already hit by the decision by Tanjong Pagar United to sit out next season and the merging of Woodlands Wellington with Hougang United.

Tanjong Pagar skipper Hafiz Osman — who with Warriors FC vice-captain Zulfadli Zainal, is seeking to set up a players union — called the initial ruling ridiculous.

“I heard it about two to three months back, but I did not believe that it will happen,” said Hafiz, 30.

Zulfadli welcomes the latest announcement, but worries for players who will miss out.

“I feel glad for the affected players but (the reversal was) done at the eleventh hour... The slots might have been fully maxed out by now and most clubs would have already maxed out their budget... The age restrictions are quite ridiculous and discriminatory,” he said.

Aleksandar Duric welcomes the U-turn.

“In the first place, this should never happen... it was not a wise decision... in future, they should consult senior players because they are the ones who are being affected by it,” said Duric, 44.

Football fans also shared similar sentiments that it was a poor decision in the first place.

Banker Lawrence Wee said: “Just because you are above 30 doesn’t mean you cannot play. They have more experience and can guide the younger ones.”