Sarpreet Singh left Auckland as a 16-year-old chasing his football dream and this weekend, he will return to his home town, three years later, as a fully-fledged Hyundai A-League player who has the media and fans singing his praises.
Perhaps the most important part of Singh’s make up is his determination to keep his feet on the ground while enjoying the journey.
“So far so good and I am really enjoying my football,” Singh said.
“I feel I have developed a lot this season and it is great having Greenie looking after the team because he has played a massive part in my development.
“It has been a difficult year for the club but despite all the problems I have learnt so much.”
While now departed coach Darjie Kalezic wasn’t every player’s cup of tea he gave Singh his first A-League start for which he is grateful.
“I was hoping to get in the team earlier but now I have it is up to me to kick on,” he said.
“In many ways it is easier for a young player when they get in the team because you can concentrate on your own game and just do the job you have been given.”
“I feel comfortable and am just taking it one game at a time.”
Wellington Phoenix General Manager, David Dome, is delighted to see Singh making inroads into professional football as he is a product of the Wellington Phoenix Soccer School (WPSS).
“We have put a lot of emphasis and resources into the WPSS and it is pleasing to see this kind of story,” Dome said.
Singh’s development has been helped by his three years staying with Trish and Brian Cederwall, a family that understands a young sportsman’s needs.
Singh’s biggest worry leading into the weekend is making sure he gets enough tickets for his family and friends.
