CERES-NEGROS boosted its chances of winning a third straight Philippines Football League crown by signing Philippine Azkals veteran James Younghusband.
The Busmen made the announcement on Friday after Younghusband was added on the final day of the transfer window. The 32-year-old will make his return to club duties after the Davao Aguilas folded last year.
“I’m very excited to be back especially I know most of the ball from the national team,” Younghusband said, as quoted by the club’s official website.
“I know most of the staff and have good relationships and I’m excited to get playing again. Being involved in every way I can and no better way than with a club like Ceres-Negros,” he added.
Younghusband hopes to provide Ceres a lift despite being out of action since the Azkals’ historic campaign in the AFC Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates last January.
It could also help the midfielder get into match fitness in hopes of earning the spot in the two matches of next month’s 2022 FIFA World Cup/2023 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers.
Azkals coach Scott Cooper made no assurance that James and brother Phil Younghusband are shoo-ins for the squad, though he acknowledged that their vast experience will be helpful in the Azkals’ campaign. (JONAS TERRADO)
