4 S-League players who could rain on Jermaine Pennant’s parade

Posted On 19 Mar 2016

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Local headlines have been all about Jermaine Pennant since the former Arsenal and Liverpool star arrived in Singapore to join Tampines Rovers just over a month ago. Dubbed the S-League’s biggest signing, the tricky winger has raised expectations before the league’s 21st season after scoring once and assisting twice in three friendly matches. Amid the fanfare, Ignatius Koh takes a look at four players who could rain on his parade

1. FUMIYA KOGURE

PHOTO: HAIQAL TAHIR

Fumiya Kogure will be seeking to build on his stellar debut at Albirex, this time with new club Hougang United.

The S-League’s reigning Player of the Year guided his former team Albirex to the RHB Singapore Cup and Singapore League Cup and a third-place finish in the league, racking up five goals and 13 assists throughout the season.

He told ESPN: “Last season I scored five goals, so this season, I must go over that target while also keeping my 13-assists tally.”

2. KEN ILSO

PHOTO: LEO SHENGWEI / PLAYMAKER

After enduring a three-month injury layoff, former Danish U-21 striker Ken Ilso (in red jersey) will want to make up for lost time.

Despite missing seven out of 27 league games last season, the Home United forward managed to finish with 11 goals and six assists. He is optimistic about bettering his per- formance this season.

In an interview with FourFourTwo last month, Ilso, 29, said: “I’m always trying to improve myself so I definitely want to hit the net more often this year — that’s what I’m here for.”

3. IZWAN MAHBUD

PHOTO: LEO SHENGWEI / PLAYMAKER

After single-handedly holding Asian giants Japan to a goal- less draw last June, Singapore’s Izwan Mahbud later impressed J2 League side Matsumoto Yamaga during a trial in December.

But the trial did not lead to any signing and Izwan has joined Tampines this season instead.

The 25-year-old custodian is hopeful of replicating his form for another overseas stint.

If Izwan’s performances in 2015 is any indication, opponents will be finding it difficult to breach the Stags’ defence this season.

4. DANIEL BENNETT

PHOTO: LEO SHENGWEI / PLAYMAKER

The oldest in this list, Daniel Bennett (in green jersey) is no stranger to fans as he gears up for his 16th season in the S.League.

With a record 128 international caps for Singapore under his belt, the 38-year-old defender brings a wealth of experience to his new club Geylang International.

The former Warriors FC star is joined by LionsXII alumni Gabriel Quak and Sahil Suhaimi.

Bennett said: “With all these exciting players, I believe we have a team that can challenge for honours. That’s the exact reason why I came to the club.”