Written by: Phoon Jia Hui

With first-choice right-back Jeremy Chiang sidelined for the remainder of the season due to an ACL injury, Warriors FC head coach Alex Weaver was prompted to delve into the transfer market for a replacement and it has come in the form of Ismail Yunos.

Snapped up from uniformed rivals Home United, Ismail – who is adept at playing anywhere along the backline – brings with him a wealth of experience having featured for the Singapore national team as well as the Young Lions in his early playing days.

The 28-year-old made his debut for Warriors in their 1-1 draw with Balestier Khalsa where he put in a decent shift at right-back.

While he was disappointed with the result, he expressed his delight at being able to join such an illustrious club like Warriors.

“Definitely I’m very happy to be part of the Warriors team with a lot of history and a lot of great players have played for Warriors in the past,” he enthused.

“But I can’t be too happy because we didn’t get the three points. Overall I’m pleased and I hope to do better in the next game.”

Describing himself as one who does not give up easily, he shared that it was a tough decision but one he had to make especially with the year-end AFF Suzuki Cup looming.

“I’m very happy and proud that I’m here today. I would like to thank the management at Home United, especially my General Manager Mr Azrul[nizam Shah] for making all this possible,” Ismail added.

Despite having just joined the squad, Ismail is already relishing the opportunity to work with the rest of the team as they continue their charge for the title.

“They really welcomed me with open arms. Everyone came up to me, pat me on the back and shook hands with me I feel so comfortable even though it was just my second day here,” he said.