2 weeks Ago By The Straits Times
Young Lions' Kaisei Ogawa tussles for the ball under the watchful eyes of coach Nazri Nasir. He joined from Albirex Niigata in 2024. SINGAPORE – Things are looking upbeat for perennial bottom dwellers Young Lions this Singapore Premier League term with the infusion of several foreign players and seasoned campaigners.
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.” Young Lions' Japanese striker Itsuki Enomoto has 10 goals in 15 matches this season. ST PHOTO: KEVIN LIM Kan Kobayashi, 25, who has combined with new midfield partner Ogawa for 10 assists, said he is taking English lessons to better communicate with his teammates.
He added: “I’m the oldest player on the team, and with my experience, if I feel like something could be improved, I try to mention it. I want to show (that) our football will surprise those around us.” Hougang coach Marko Kraljevic, is well aware of the dangers posed by the Young Lions.
Stressing the need to stay focused in the clash between two sides tied on 14 points, he added: “We must be patient in our build-up, and react fast on transit.” Sailors v Balestier (Sept 22, 6pm, Bishan) Two Maxime Lestienne stoppage-time goals was what separated both sides the last time they met, and the Sailors will hope the in-form Belgian can repeat that feat against a Tigers side who are struggling at the back, but have enough offensive firepower to threaten. DPMM v Tampines (Sept 22, 8.
15pm, Hassanal Bolkiah) The Stags will be feeling the effects of travelling after an away trip to Thailand for their Asian Champions League 2 opener on Sept 18, and must stay concentrated if they were to contain the Brunei outfit’s attack. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you. Read 3 articles and stand to win rewards Spin the wheel now.
