Singapore forward Gabriel Quak ruled out of remaining AFF Suzuki Cup games

The Singapore national team have been dealt a blow in their AFF Suzuki Cup campaign after forward Gabriel Quak was ruled out of the rest of the tournament. ]

The 30-year-old confirmed the news through social media on Monday (Dec 13), after he suffered a recurrence of his shoulder injury in Singapore’s match against Philippines last week. He will now undergo surgery in midweek. 

Gabriel first dislocated his shoulder and suffered a labral tear during a friendly match against a Morocco selection side in November. The match was part of the Lions’ preparation for the Suzuki Cup. 

He had fought against the odds – through intense rehabilitation and strengthening exercises – to be deemed fit enough to make the Singapore squad for the tournament. 

The match against the Philippines was his only appearance in the tournament. He was a bright spark throughout, but unfortunately dislocated his shoulder again in the 55th minute of the match after tussling for the ball with Azkals defender Justin Baas and was substituted five minutes later. 

The 2020 Singapore Premier League Player of the Year told Youthopia that the past few weeks have been tough as he tried to get himself match fit. 

“I really wanted to help Singapore go all the way, especially on home soil. I am thankful for coach Tatsuma (Yoshida) and my teammates’ support, along with Fizah (Nurhafizah Sujad, Singapore’s physiotherapist) and the medical team’s tireless efforts to give me a chance of playing,” he said. 

“While my Suzuki Cup journey is over, I hope Singaporeans back the Lions as they continue to fight for the title. I’ll be their number one fan from the stands and cheer them on too.” 

The Lions are currently second in Group A of the Suzuki Cup behind Thailand, by virtue of goal difference. Both teams have got six points after two matches played. 

Singapore next take on Timor Leste, who are currently last in Group A, next on Tuesday. A win would virtually seal a spot in the semi-finals for the Lions, who have not progressed beyond the group stages since 2012.