7 June 2013

Ong Jiing Yih

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Tanjong Pagar United on Wednesday announced the signing of Singapore International John Wilkinson.

The attacking midfielder is expected to don the no.16 shirt, and could count himself as one of few players from the Lion City to have ventured overseas with previous spells in Thailand and India.

A former team mate of Club captain Hafiz Osman and Ahmad Latiff, the English-born player has also turned turned out for the likes of Geylang United, Woodlands Wellington and Home United.

Wilkinson spoke as he announced his official arrival to the press.

“I’m excited, very pleased and relieved to be back playing in the S.League.”

The one-time member of the Lions squad returns from a spell away from home comforts and is certainly pleased to be back, while looking forward to work with the then-receipient of Head Coach of the Year.

“I’m at an age where I need to be back with my family on home soil.

“I’m also excited to be working with (head coach) Patrick (Vallee), who knows what he wants to play, an attacking style of football which suits me more than other teams in the league.”

Vallee wasted little time as soon as the transfer window opened on 3 June.

Now that he’s swooped to sign his man, he shares his thoughts on the player whom he first crossed swords with in 2010.

“I told the management I’d like to bring in a player who can play and adds value to the team. For John (Wilkinson) I like his technical style of football.

My aim is not to increase (numbers) but to improve (in terms of quality) and onto the next level.

Most importantly, I’ve signed a player whom I want and who’s able to play.

I’m happy that he’s come to play for Tanjong Pagar – we’ll not change the mission of (what) the Club (can do), and his arrival can only be good for Singapore football.”

Back to the new signing, Wilkinson timely arrival boosts the team in terms of both creativity and also in number, as a long and hard season reaches it midway stage.

In addition, he looks to have been keeping track of developments in the local scene despite having spent time away.

“It’s been one of the more even leagues in years,” referring to the championsip itself.

Wilkinson has also promised to turn on the style of the Jaguars fans.

“Basically, I’d want to win in every match I play in, be successful and to (inject) more excitement and enjoy as always.”