Les Ferdinand, 38, the former Newcastle legend, warmly embraced fans in Singapore last Friday night. Thanks to The New Paper and ESPN Star Sports, three lucky readers of Singapore's football paper had the opportunity to have a smashing time at Devils Bar with one of the "most lethal hit-men" to have graced the Premiership. He was very willing to share his thoughts on football. For example, one of his biggest joys was to play for Newcastle under Kevin Keegan, his favourite manager. That was because of Keegan's attacking philosophy, plus the Geordie fans were the most passionate in England. He said this was his third time in Singapore. He was here back in 1996 when Newcastle toured Asia. Two years later, he was here for a four-day holiday after his vacation in Bali.
His last words paid a glowing tribute to his fans in Asia: "Singaporean fans are more respectful than those back home. In England, sometimes I would be subjected to loads of (nonsense) from the terraces. It was harmless fun, though, but in Singapore, everyone is so polite when they approach you.
"I'm definitely enjoying my time over here. And what struck me is how Singaporeans are so passionate about the English League. They really know their football well."