Hougang United FC says the incident was due to an administrative timing issue
The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) has fined Hougang United Football Club (HGFC) for fielding a player in three fixtures without a formally approved work pass.
HGFC let Gloire Amanda, 27, play in three matches prior to the completion of all mandatory regulatory clearances relating to his work pass status in Singapore.
"Although HGFC had submitted a work pass application, the work pass had neither received formal approval nor been physically issued at the time the player participated in those matches," the FAS and the Singapore Premier League said in a joint statement.
The affected fixtures include HGFC's matches against BG Tampines Rovers on January 21, Lion City Sailors on January 24, and the Young Lions on January 30.
According to the joint statement, the results of the affected matches will be overturned, with three points awarded to the respective non-infringing teams.
HGFC: An administrative oversight
HGFC said it respects the decision of the FAS, and apologised for the incident.
"Hougang United FC sincerely apologises to the Football Association of Singapore, the affected clubs, as well as our supporters, partners, and stakeholders for this administrative oversight," the club said in a statement.
The football club attributed the incident to an administrative timing issue relating to documentation clearance.
"There was no intent to circumvent regulations, and the Club has fully cooperated throughout the review process," it said.
"We recognise the importance of strict compliance with all regulatory and competition requirements and take full responsibility for the lapse."
Disciplinary measures for FAS staff
Meanwhile, the FAS said disciplinary measures will also be taken against the FAS staff and management who were involved in the registration process.
"They should have detected Hougang United FC's mistake," the statement said.
As a result of the incident, the FAS added that it will implement with "immediate effect" the enhanced verification and compliance protocols governing the registration of players.
"The FAS acknowledges the seriousness of this matter and remains firmly committed to transparency, regulatory consistency, and safeguarding the integrity and professionalism of its competitions," it said.
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower also said it is now investigating the incident, stressing that it "takes a serious view of illegal employment."
"All foreigners, including professional athletes, must possess valid work passes before they can commence work in Singapore," a ministry spokesperson told The Straits Times.
