SINGAPORE – After a transformative six-month coaching attachment with Tokyo Verdy in Japan's J1 League, Noh Alam Shah made his return to Singapore, landing at Changi Airport early on December 2.

By dawn, he was already at Jurong East Stadium, eager to kick off his new role as the interim coach of Tanjong Pagar United.

With the Jaguars mired at the bottom of the Singapore Premier League, having secured only two wins in 19 matches, he is taking on the formidable challenge of revamping a team in need of radical change.

Noh's first strategies were put into action even before training officially started at 7am, as he integrated lessons learned from his time in Japan into the Jaguars’ training regimen.

This isn't Noh's first endeavor with Tanjong Pagar; he previously assisted head coach Hasrin Jailani before the latter's departure last September.

Armed with experience as one of Singapore’s top national strikers, with a tally of 35 goals from 80 international appearances, Noh's approach emphasizes intensity and professionalism.

"If I expect my players to run 10km, I must lead by example and do the same," he stated, underlining that coaches must maintain high standards to foster a professional atmosphere.

One immediate task was shoring up a leaky defense that had conceded a staggering 73 goals this season—highest in the league.

Noh brought in Canadian goalkeeper Matt Silva, a significant signing that he hopes will turn the tide.

"We’ve rotated goalkeepers, and the results have not been encouraging. It’s crucial that we address these issues upfront," he explained.

Noh's fiery passion for the game has not diminished since his retirement in 2015.

When addressing his squad about success, he bluntly communicated, "Staying with the club means we’ve achieved something worthwhile. It’s about winning back respect and proving we belong here."

His candid approach has already yielded modest improvements in squad morale and fitness levels.

He encouraged his players to acknowledge their weaknesses while focusing on small victories—be it achieving personal bests in training or improving individual skills.

“Football’s journey is as important as the final score,” he stressed, advocating for a mindset shift within the team.

In a testament to his enduring loyalty to Tanjong Pagar, Noh revealed his aspirations to one day coach overseas.

Yet, for now, his focus is singular: to uplift this struggling team.

His coaching journey has included valuable lessons learned under mentor Fandi Ahmad with the national team and aiding Tanjong Pagar return to the SPL.

As Noh aims for greatness and longs for the camaraderie he established in recent years, he is dedicated to instilling a sense of teamwork, resilience, and fighting spirit.

“Together, we can transform from losers to winners. It’s about working step by step,” he concluded, full of determination and hope for the season ahead.

Will Noh Alam Shah's leadership spark a resurgence for Tanjong Pagar United?

Only time will tell! Keep your eyes on this beleaguered team as they strive for redemption in the remaining matches.