PROMISING TAN, ONG LEARNING WITH LIONS

Young duo earn maiden call-ups to national team in big step up for their development

- David Lee Senior Sports Correspondent

In the last eight months, left-footed winger Jonan Tan has experienced the fierce intensity of European football after playing for the Under-23 teams of Portuguese clubs Estrela Amadora and Vizela, where he impressed with his creativity and skilful dribbling.

Despite having played just four games in Portugal, the 19-year-old has done enough to earn his maiden Lions call-up for the Asian Cup qualifying doubleheader against India. The games will be played at the National Stadium on Oct 9 and away on Oct 14.

Tan, who is currently on loan at second-tier Vizela from Singapore Premier League (SPL) champions Lion City Sailors, told The Straits Times: “In Portugal, it’s war on the pitch and not just like a fun thing. It inspires me to be more competitive and intense as well.

“I feel I have grown physically and mentally stronger. I’ve learnt to trust God, to be confident on the ball and to not be afraid to make mistakes.”

After completing his full-time national service in January, he scored a loan move to Estrela after a trial and played twice for the club’s U-23s in the second half of the season. He then moved to Vizela where he has played twice and notched an assist for their U-23s.