Home United coach Aidil Sharin has heaped praise on Hassan Sunny, saying the Singapore custodian is among the primary reasons for his side's improved defensive discipline n the 2017 season.
The 33-year-old joined the Protectors in January on a one-year-deal, ahead of the start of the new season after a two-year stint with Thai club Army United. Notably, Hassan was slated to play for the Thai Premier League side until 2017 but the club's relegation last season cut short the Singapore international's stay.
Hassan made an instant impact with his new club during their 7-3 win (on aggregate) over Cambodia's Phnom Penh Crown in the AFC Cup Qualifiers. With him leading the backline, Home have been a tough side to score against, conceding the least number of goals, four, in the S.League season so far.
"Hassan Sunny had added a lot of calmness in the defence. His presence and leadership from the back certainly helped the young ones to play better. The differences between this year and last year is certainly the fitness level of the team," Sharin told International Business Times Singapore.
Also read: Home can reach the final of AFC Cup 2017, says Aidil Sharin
Protectors had issues with their defence last season as they conceded 42 goals, which was the third worst figure in the league, despite finishing fourth. However, they have turned it around this season at the back with Sharin's move to use Irfan Fandi as centre-back also working wonders for the team.
Hasan eyes return to Thai Premier League
Hasan also says the team is happy to have a 'hard-working coach' and that he is excited to share his experience with the youngsters in the team.
"He [Aidil Sharin] wants the team to work hard for each other. He is very hardworking and the team is very happy to have a coach like him. I am happy to be sharing my experiences and training methods with the team," Hassan said.
The established custodian, who had earlier revealed he will be looking forward to playing in Thailand again, reiterates his stand, saying he is still eyeing a move out of Singapore. Notably, he received a surprise offer from J.League's third-tier club Gainare Tottori to play a couple of training games with them earlier this year.
"I want to try to play overseas again. It was a great experience for me in Army United. And I think I can still have a few good years of football ahead of me," the Lions' goalkeeper added.
