Jing Jamlang

Congratulations to Gavin Lee on getting Singapore into the Asian Cup for the first time and securing the Head Coach position! When he led Tampines Rovers against Kaya in the AFC Cup back in 2020, I knew he was someone special. At the time, he was only 29, just a few months in charge, but already it was quite apparent that the team was completely bought in to his approach. They were slick, organized, and methodical. We were very lucky to walk away goalless and with a point. From then on, I've kept an eye on his career, and I can't say I'm surprised he's now where he is. Even Singapore great, Daniel Bennet, who was 42 at the time, said in a podcast (Across the Line) we had together in June 2020, that Gavin had made football the easiest he'd ever experienced. Imagine that - a coach only a few years older than Bennet's playing career, was able to reshape how Daniel saw and played the game! Not only did Lee have a clear picture of how to approach a football match, he had the ability to effectively transmit that idea to his players (young or experienced) very quickly – something I've very rarely seen in my time around the game. Now he's got the fantastic opportunity to lead his country to the Asian Cup and show what Singapore is all about. Best of luck to him and the Lions! Regardless of how qualification ends for the Philippines in March, a part of me will be invested in Gavin Lee and Singapore's journey. He's a fantastic example and inspiration for young coaches everywhere.