Singapore football legend Fandi Ahmad insists he still has a role to play in Singapore football despite being appointed team manager of Johor FA last Friday.
The former Lions striker's latest appointment came just a day after landing the role of technical adviser with the two-time Malaysia Cup champions, who have since slumped into the second division.
The 49-year-old was initially keen on leading Singapore's Under-21 side to the AFC Under-22 qualifier in Brunei in June as part of the Young Lions preparations for next year's Sea Games in Myanmar.
But according to Malaysia daily New Straits Times, the Football Association of Singapore "was slow to respond" and Fandi decided to take up the role with Johor FA, whom he signed a three-year contract with.
Singapore's favourite footballing son however insists he can still contribute to his country's footballing development despite pledging his loyalty to Johor.
"I will still help out the FAS on ad-hoc basis. But right now my loyalty lies with Johor. Sukumaran [head coach] and myself are determined to rebuild Johor football and bring back the glorious days," he told NST.
"I am really honoured to be given this post. I am grateful to be given the trust by the top guns in the association and I will do my best to take Johor football to new heights," he added.
Local football fans have given their views on Fandi's involvement with their cross-border neighbours.
Chan Chok Seng, 36, reckons home is always Fandi's preferred destination. He said: "If Fandi has been given the job at FAS, do you think he would choose to go Johor?
"Whether it's a wrong decision for FAS not to hire Fandi remains to be seen. But having an experienced player who had seen it all as a coaching staff will certainly do no harm.
"He's an icon and he could give the players a lift when needed," he added.
However, Kelvin Tan, 31, feels it might be a blessing in disguise for Singapore football, arguing: "He's a good player but I don't think he can hit the same heights as a coach.
"We should bring in some real foreign talent with technical expertise. No point crying over spilled milk. He has made his decision and that's that."
FAS could not be contacted to comment at press time.
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