Written by: Shawn Lim

Home United have retained the core of the team that finished sixth in their Great Eastern Yeo’s S.League 2015 campaign.

The Protectors successfully persuaded club top scorer Ken Ilso to extend his contract while welcoming back centre-back Sim Teck Yi after stints with Tanjong Pagar and Courts Young Lions.

Ilso and Sim will re-join the likes of Abdil Qaiyyim, Azhar Sairudin, Hyrulnizam Jumaat, Eko Pradana, Sufianto Salleh, Redzwan Atan, Shahrin Saberin, R Aaravin and Zul Fairuuz on the pitch for the upcoming season.

Home coach Philippe Aw also looks set to continue his philosophy of combining youth with experience in his second season with the RHB Singapore Cup 2015 finalists after signing talented 19-year-old Mahathir Azeman.

In a club statement, the Protectors said: “We are delighted to announce that an agreement has been struck between Ken and the club that will see him feature for HUFC in 2016.

“His contract extension will surely bring more excitement to the fans next season. His intelligent play is a joy to watch and a definite must learn for our younger Protectors.

“Azhar is much more than just a finisher or player of the final ball, he often plays a significant role in the build up. His transition of play often catches the opponent defences off guard.

“His extension with the club is vital for us to continue with our fluid-passing brand of football.”

Photo courtesy of Home United