SINGAPORE: The Singapore national football team is gearing up for the 2024 ASEAN Championships, but they will be without the services of key players, including Lion City Sailors midfielder Song Ui-young and several others based in Thailand.

Song Ui-young, a South Korean who became a Singapore citizen in 2021, has opted out of the tournament due to pressing family matters. He communicated his decision to head coach Tsutomu Ogura, who expressed support for Song's choice, hoping for his return to the national squad in the future.

The absence of Song is compounded by the lack of Fandi Ahmad's sons, who are currently playing in Thailand. Irfan Fandi (Port FC), Ilhan Fandi, and Ikhsan Fandi (both with BG Pathum) are all unavailable for selection. Additionally, Jacob Mahler is sidelined due to injury, further depleting the squad's talent pool.

On a positive note, the coaching staff is pleased to announce that veteran defender Safuwan Baharudin has been granted clearance from Selangor FC and will join the team for the tournament. "We are grateful to Selangor for their cooperation in releasing him for this crucial competition," said Ogura, emphasizing the importance of having experienced players on the squad.

Adding to the good news, Shahdan Sulaiman makes a welcome return after overcoming multiple injuries over the past few years. The experienced midfielder has been performing well in the Singapore Premier League and is eager to prove himself to the coach. At 36 years old, Shahdan expresses his determination, stating, "I’m fighting for a place on the final matchday squad, and the competitive spirit within the team is high. Everyone is hungry to play."

The AFF Mitsubishi Electric Cup kicked off on December 6, with Singapore placed in Group A alongside defending champions Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Timor Leste. Their first match is scheduled for December 11 against Cambodia at the National Stadium, followed by a trip to Vietnam to face Timor Leste.

Ogura highlighted the extensive preparations the team has undertaken in the months leading up to the tournament, stating, "It’s time for our team to rise to the challenge and bring pride to Singapore. Our supporters are crucial, and we hope they will turn the National Stadium into a fortress for us."

Singapore, a four-time champion of this tournament, is looking for redemption after a disappointing performance in 2022, where they failed to advance past the group stages despite two initial wins. The team is eager to reclaim their former glory as they face off against rivals, including an important match against Malaysia on December 20 at Bukit Jalil National Stadium.

As the Lions prepare for this demanding tournament, their resilience and tactical strategies will be tested on the pitch, making it a must-watch event for fans.