Fandi blazing a new trail

by Shamir Osman
04:46 AM Mar 10, 2011 SINGAPORE - Everyone connected with the game would have known the obvious benefits of sending Singapore's young footballers to Europe to develop their game before bringing them back to raise local standards.

But with the absence of a clear pathway to European clubs, attachments have been few and far between.

Now Fandi Ahmad, Singapore's favourite footballing son, has stepped forward to take on the mantle of clearing the path to Europe for young hopefuls here.

Speaking at the Sky Fitness facility at Harbour Front, on the sidelines of the launch of the book he co-authored with Rano Izhar, Optimal Fitness for Junior Champions, Ages 7-17, Fandi said: "I think we need to embark on a new era in professional football. If we don't send players abroad, I don't think we can take Singapore football to the next level. There is a pathway that is there, I know the rules and I know where to go. I've been there before and I'd love to help take Singapore players to Europe."

Arguably the best footballer the Republic has produced, Fandi turned out for Dutch side FC Groningen in the early 80s, and is now working with the Genova International School of Soccer (GISS) in Italy and as a scout for Serie B club Vicenza Calcio.

"Since I've been back, I've gone to watch school and amateur league games and there is a lot of talent out there. I've already been in talks to help players go abroad, especially those not contracted to clubs or connected to any associations," said the 48-year-old.

The GISS provide three- or six-month long stints for developing players where they receive training and attend trials with various clubs.

But the first big date in Fandi's calendar is April 17 when a two-week long open trial with Vicenza kicks off.

"I'm taking one Singaporean, one Indonesian and three Australian players to Italy for that trial," said Fandi, declining to reveal the identity of the local player.