Sudarsono (standing left), former Sarawak skipper Joseph (standing right) in a photo call with state junior players during Tuesday’s dinner.
KUCHING: The make-up of Sarawak’s football team for next season will not be known until at least Dec 15.
But it is already very clear that the squad for the 2016 Super League will look very different. No less than 10 players from the 2015 season will not be returning.
Among the notable departures are Joseph Kallang Tie, who has signed with Terengganu, and goalkeeper Mohd Fadzley Rahim
The entire fleet of import players – Patrick Gerhadt Neyma, Ryan Griffith, Ivan Fatic and Billy Mehmet – is also out.
The confirmed list of ex-Crocs extends to Sabri Sahar, Nazri Kamal, G Mathevan and A Varathan.
Speculation is rife that Brazilian import Gilmar Jose da Silva Filho will move from Kelantan to Sarawak and that Bosnian striker Muamer Salibasic will re-emerge as a Croc.
Speaking during the Football Association of Sarawak’s annual year-end dinner on Tuesday, FAS president Datu Sudarsono Osman expressed optimism that new coach Datuk K Rajagobal have what it takes to bring more excitement to the Stadium Negeri.
“He is the right man for the job and I am sure that he can transform Sarawak into formidable opponents for the other teams playing in the Super League next year.
“We must keep the faith and pray for more success to come here to Sarawak,” he said.
Former national player Rajagobal, who had also played for Sabah and Selangor, achieved regional success for Malaysia including the 2009 SEA Games gold medal when he coached the national team.