Crown FC prepare to unleash Dutch striker
DUTCH striker Jelle Goselink – Phnom Penh Crown FC’s latest international signing – arrived in the Kingdom recently. The 24-old described his determination to see the club return to the top of the Cambodian Premier League, and also expressed his excitement at representing the club, known locally as Red Singha, in the regional AFC Cup.
The 1.89m striker noted that he was drawn to the club because of the passion and love for football that he shared with the Kingdom’s fans.
He ran out for his first training under Ukrainian head coach Oleg Starynskyi on November 21, and was pleased at the opportunity to begin fitting in with his new teammates.
“When I first spoke with the coach, I was happy. He explained the structure of the club, as well as of the highlevel competition here in Cambodia,” he said.
“Everything is good, so I was very happy to sign a contract with the club. Our home ground (RSN stadium in Phnom Penh) is very good. It reminds me of the stadiums in England, so I think the atmosphere will be incredible for both players and fans,” he added.
Goselink’s most recent stint was at Borneo FC Samarinda in Indonesia, currently top of the ladder in Liga One, the top domestic competition. Prior to that he was signed to Dutch second division side Helmond Sport FC.
The first appearance for his newest club has yet to come for the tall Dutchman, who wears the number nine jersey. Although he was present as Crown faced off against league leaders Svay Rieng on November 25, the coach opted not to send him on. The match ended in a nil-all draw for the two top-of-the-table sides.
Goselink described his ambitions as going beyond helping the crown club to lift the Cambodia Premier League trophy. He said he is determined to help the “Red Singha FC” achieve success in the AFC Cup.
At present, the club sits second on the Pool F ladder, behind Australian club Macarthur FC. The two teams are on nine points, with three wins and one loss, with only goal difference separating them.
“My goal is to play well and help the crown club. I hope that we will accomplish many successes together. I want to help the team lift the league trophy, and I want us to do well in the AFC Cup,” he added.