The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) has officially named Gavin Lee as head coach of the Singapore men’s national football team, rewarding the 35-year-old for his exceptional work as interim coach. The announcement was made at a press conference held at Jalan Besar Stadium on Nov 28.

The appointment comes just over a week after Lee masterminded a thrilling 2-1 comeback win over Hong Kong in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers on Nov 18. That result secured the Lions’ qualification for the Asian Cup Finals on merit for the first time—a historic milestone for Singapore football.

Lee’s rise to the top job reflects both his tactical acumen and his ability to inspire trust. Having first taken charge as interim coach in June, after Tsutomu Ogura resigned, Lee quickly earned the respect of players and backroom staff alike. He demonstrated a clear understanding of the team’s identity, forging strong relationships across the squad and emphasizing unity, resilience, and discipline.

“The team’s recent displays of cohesion and resilience were built on Gavin’s familiarity with the players and staff, and the trust and confidence he has inspired in the dressing room,” said FAS President Forrest Li at the press conference. “He has shown just how effective that atmosphere can be for our Lions, and we are confident that he will help the team grow from strength to strength as we kick off preparations for the Asian Cup Finals.”

Reflecting on his appointment, Lee spoke of both privilege and responsibility. “I first started coaching Under-4s, and now to be entrusted with the National Team is a true honour. It’s a privilege I don’t take lightly, and I hope it shows others that with commitment and hard work, opportunities like this are achievable,” he said.

Since taking the interim role, Lee has impressed with meticulous preparation, detailed match analysis, and an emphasis on team unity. His ability to connect with both established and younger players was a key factor behind the decision to make his role permanent.

Lee also credited his predecessor for laying the foundation that enabled Singapore’s success. “After the full-time whistle, the first phone call I made was to my wife; the second was to him — to thank him for being part of this journey. I don’t think we’d be here today without the early work that set us on our path,” he said of Ogura.

Under Lee, the Lions have embraced a resilient and determined identity, securing three away wins during the qualifying campaign, two of them from behind. “First of all, we’re a team that won’t stop until the final whistle. We empty our tanks until the referee decides the game is over,” Lee explained. “That takes desire, courage and commitment, but also clarity — clarity in what we want to achieve and who we’re doing it for. Those values are important to us. The football will follow.”

Lee, formerly coach of BG Tampines Rovers, becomes Singapore’s first permanent local head coach since V. Sundram Moorthy in 2016. His first competitive assignment will come in March 2026, when the Lions host Bangladesh at the National Stadium in the final Group C fixture. Preparations are already underway for the 2027 Asian Cup Finals in Saudi Arabia.

Lee’s appointment sends a strong message that dedication, results, and leadership are recognized and rewarded in Singapore football—a journey from youth coaching to the national stage that exemplifies the rewards of hard work and belief in local talent.

Featured Photo Credit: Football Association of Singapore