Indonesian lifeline for banned striker Noh Alam

SINGAPORE: Singapore striker Noh Alam Shah, banned for a year for a frenzied on-pitch attack on an international team-mate, could be handed an Indonesian lifeline. 

The Tampines Rovers frontman was slapped with the 12-month ban on Monday for last month's Cup final attack on SAFFC defender Daniel Bennett. 

Noh Alam kneed Bennett in the face and kicked him in the back as Tampines went down 4-3 in the fiery final. He had to be shepherded from the pitch by team-mates as he struggled to break free. 

The striker's ban only extends to Singaporean domestic competition, however, and former Singapore captain Fandi Ahmad is preparing to throw Noh Alam a lifeline at the Indonesian club he now coaches. 

“Noh will be an asset to Pelita (Jaya),” Fandi said.  

“He has the speed, physical presence and finishing power to be a feared striker. 

“He is already very well known in Indonesia. He will be a good signing for us.” 

Noh Alam, who is still eligible to play for Singapore in their World Cup qualifying campaign, is his country's leading goalscorer with 28 strikes in 63 appearances. – Reuters