Locals try to stay positive as foreign quota rises

It has been a frantic few weeks for Shahdan Sulaiman, as the veteran midfielder scrambled to find a new employer for the upcoming Singapore Premier League (SPL) season after his contract expired at Hougang United.

- Melvyn Teoh

The 37-year-old penned a one-year deal with Geylang International on Aug 13, though he will not be guaranteed minutes as local players will have only four confirmed spots in the starting XI.

"The deadline was getting close, so it might have been my last chance to be able to play for this coming season," said Shahdan.

"I would say that I have one or two more good seasons in me, but after what happened, I would...hopefully get some good performances and be rewarded by the end of the season."

A rule change introduced by the Football Association of Singapore will allow clubs to field up to seven foreigners per match—one more than last season.

Local players are readying for the increased tussle for spots.

Shahdan said: "I have always been fighting for spots, no matter what the rules are, we have (had) a few different rules and changes over the past few seasons and it doesn't change anything for me.

"As a player, it has always been merit based. If you want a spot, you fight for it, if you feel you are lacking, then you have to work harder than the rest to get that spot. That's how you improve."