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Fresh off a challenging season that saw them finish outside the top three for the first time in five years, Albirex Niigata is rebuilding with purpose. Assistant coach Jaswinder Singh joins us to reveal how the club plans to reclaim its position among Singapore's football elite.

Jas offers a candid assessment of last season's struggles, explaining how an extended four-month pre-season led to player burnout before competitive matches even began. The transition to a more localised squad required significant tactical adjustments, contributing to their disappointing sixth-place finish after losing eight of their first ten matches.

What makes this conversation particularly fascinating is Jas' insights into Albirex's recruitment strategy. For what appears to be the first time in club history, they've supplemented their traditional Japanese contingent with Korean players. Centre-backs Cho Eunsu (described as a "physical beast") and Kim Taeuk bring defensive solidity, while forward Lee Dong Yeol has impressed in pre-season physical testing. The standout potential star? Japanese playmaker Takumi Yokohata, a 22-year-old number 10 who "sees passes others don't see."

Tactically, Albirex is evolving while maintaining their signature possession-based style. Jas hints at a new team shape that improves transitions both offensively and defensively, addressing last season's defensive frailties. The psychological approach is equally interesting – there's "pressure off" this season since they're no longer defending champions, allowing them to play with more freedom.

Want to know if Albirex can challenge for silverware again? Jas diplomatically sets a top-four finish as the realistic target but tellingly notes this squad has "the same feels as our previous championship teams." For Albirex fans and neutrals alike, this promises to be a fascinating season watching this blend of Japanese technique, Korean physicality, and local talent take shape.