After 4 years, winger joins Geylang

SINGAPORE - In a bid to bring back the glory days, Geylang International have signed a clutch of experienced local footballers who have been capped at international level.

The biggest name in the Eagles' nest this upcoming season will be Ridhuan Muhd, who will make his S-League return after four years in Indonesia.

Capped 65 times with three international goals, the 29-year-old winger is looking to make his presence felt this season.

"I've been away for a while now, but I'm looking to hit top form again and contribute to Geylang," Ridhuan told The New Paper yesterday.

"Of course, I would still like to get back into the national team. Hopefully, I'm not considered too old.

"Anyway, I will just do my best on the pitch and leave the rest to destiny."

Geylang coach V Kanan is excited at the prospect of seeing Ridhuan tear down the flank, and backs his new signing to light up the S-League again with his scintillating runs.

He said: "Ridhuan has been very professional and very fit.

"He hasn't lost any of his touches and skills and we are looking forward to see him in action in the new season."

Kanan has also made what he hopes will be shrewd signings in the form of fullbacks K Sathiaraj and Hamqaamal Shah and midfielders Aliff Shafaein, Mustaqim Manzur and Hafiz Nor.

His five foreign players include former Albirex Niigata defensive duo Kento Fukuda and Yuki Ichikawa, as well as Argentinian trio Franco Chivilo, Joaquin Lopez and Leonel Felice.

CONFIDENT

Kanan is confident enough in his reinforced squad to target a top-six finish, after finishing ninth out of 12 teams last season. He added: "We have a very decent team this time round with plenty of experience.

"We want to finish better than last season, and we also want to do well in the cups, especially the RHB Singapore Cup as it gives us a chance of playing in the AFC Cup."