Pennant to wear No 9 shirt for Tampines Rovers

SINGAPORE - Former Arsenal and Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant has officially joined five-time S.League champions Tampines Rovers on a one-year-deal with an option to extend for a further season.

The 33-year-old was presented as a Stags player at a signing ceremony this morning at the Komoco Motors showroom.

While no details of his contract were revealed, TODAY understands the Englishman will earn about S$45,000 per month – rising to S$60,000 after bonuses and add-ons - with Tampines chairman Krishna Ramachandra referring to it as a “sexy” figure.

“It’s a significant day for us. We have a new team for the new season. We are hoping to go all the way in whichever tournament we play in,” said Krishna. “ The hard work that has been in the months and weeks leading up to this has paid off.”

Pennant said he has been “surprised” at the high standard of local footballers. “They have got some very good players and I am looking forward to the season ahead,” the former England Under-21 star added. “I (hope to) bring my quality from the EPL and give some advice to the players.”

The Englishman will wear the No. 9 jersey for the upcoming S-League season and could make his league debut when Tampines Rovers host Eastern rivals Geylang International on Feb 15 at the Jurong West Stadium.

However, Pennant’s first game in Tampines colours will come tomorrow evening as the Stags take on Malaysian side Johor Darul Ta’zim II - the team that boast Singapore internationals Baihakki Khaizan and Shahril Ishak in their ranks - in a friendly match at the Jalan Besar Stadium.

Prior to the signing ceremony, Decathlon were also announced as the Stags new kit sponsors for the upcoming season while the entire Tampines Rovers squad was presented at the event as well.

Since arriving for his one-week trial on Jan 7, Pennant has impressed his team-mates, coach V. Sundramoorthy and chairman Krishna with his attitude in training and remarkable fitness levels.

Pennant cleared a 2.4km run in 8 minutes and 45 seconds, well ahead of the required 9 minutes and 30 seconds all S.League players are required to meet. He also notched an assist during a 45-minute cameo against Hougang United in a friendly..

“I was surprised when he ran the 2.4 km run (in that timing),” said Sundram. “Fitness wise, he is there. He just needs to get stronger (ahead of new season) by working daily with and without the ball.”