Written by: Khalis Rifhan

Hougang United have snapped up former Croatia Under-17 international Durica Zuparic for the upcoming Great Eastern Yeo’s S.League season, after the defender impressed the club in a trial match against Woodlands Wellington on 9 February.

Durica showed his aerial prowess and leadership at the back, putting on an astute performance and capping it off with a fine individual goal which began from his interception in midfield.

“I hope to stay injury free and play as good as I can for the club.  I will like to help the younger players in the team to improve themselves with my vast paying experience,” Durica said after signing the contract with Hougang’s Team Manager Nicholas Low.

Durica started his career with HNSK Moslavina and NK Imotski in the Croatian Second Division before making the move to Hungarian top tier club Kaposvari Rakoczi in 2009.

While the 1.92m tall defender has spent the last few years in Croatia’s lower tier league, he is delighted with the move to play in Singapore’s professional league.

“I feel great and relieved to earn this golden opportunity to play outside of Europe. I have heard many good things about Asian and Singapore football from my Croatian friends so this is a dream come true for me,” he said.

“Even though I have just arrived, I could see that the club has potential to do well this season and that is the primary reason why I am here to help them do so. I will like to thank the club and my representatives, Trebol Sports international for giving me an opportunity to showcase my talent.”

Hougang will open their 2014 Great Eastern Yeo’s S.League campaign by welcoming Woodlands Wellington at Hougang Stadium on 22 February .

Photo: Trebol Sports International