Singapore goalkeeper Hassan Sunny announces retirement from international football

SINGAPORE: Veteran goalkeeper Hassan Sunny has retired from the international arena following a 20-year Lions career that saw him pick up 115 caps. 

It is time for him to make way for younger players to stake their claim for the No 1 spot, said Hassan in a social media post on Sunday (Aug 18).

“My footballing journey with the national team has been a roller coaster ride with many ups and downs, but I have cherished every moment," he said. 

“It was always an honour to represent my country, and I will miss the team bus rides, overseas travels, packed stadiums, and so much more.”

The goalkeeper made the news recently, after he became a celebrity with China football fans for a superb performance in Singapore's 3-1 loss to Thailand during a World Cup qualifier. 

He made 11 saves, denying Thailand - who needed to win by three goals - the chance to leapfrog China into second place in the group.

As a result, China joined group leaders South Korea in the final round of Asian qualifiers for the World Cup.

Hassan, who made his international debut in 2004, had said in June that he has a “few more years to go”.

“I have never regarded myself as the best, but I always fought my way up, giving 100 per cent in trainings and matches,” Hassan said on Sunday.

“Now, the time has come for me to step aside and let the younger goalkeepers take over. I will always give my utmost support to the goalkeeping department and the team, and will always be rooting for them.”

“I wish the Singapore National Team all the best in the upcoming tournaments and the best of luck in their future endeavours.”