Footballer Hariss Harun to undergo 10-day Shanghai Shenghua trial

Contributed by Isaac Christian

Friday, July 2, 2010 — Singapore’s youngest ever international Hariss Harun has left for Shanghai this morning Friday, 2 July on a 10-day trial with Chinese Super League (CSL) side Shanghai Shenghua.

With 11 games into the 2010 CSL season, Shanghai Shenghua are currently in first place in one of Asia’s premier leagues. The Chinese side are coached by former Croatian national team head coach, Miroslav Blazevic, who guided the Croats to a third place finish at the 1998 FIFA World Cup.

In June 2007, Hariss eclipsed Singapore legend Fandi Ahmad’s record when he made his senior debut as a substitute in a 2-1 win over DPR Korea at the age of 16 years and 217 days. Since then the 19-year-old has firmly established his role with the national team, amassing a total of 15 caps, featuring against top international teams such as Australia, Saudi Arabia, China and Iran.

“I’m really looking forward to the trials with Shanghai Shenghua. They are a top side in Asia and I can’t wait to test my ability at such a platform. I’m very grateful to Raddy and the FAS for making this stint a reality. Every footballer dreams of such an opportunity,” said Hariss.

With two SEA Games bronze medals to his name, the Young Lions captain has been instrumental for his team this season. The Young Lions are currently on a 10-match unbeaten run in all competitions this season.

This will be Hariss’ second trip abroad, following his week-long training stint with Spanish giants FC Barcelona’s renowned youth academy in September 2007, when he beat 13 young footballers from across Asia to be named the Most Valuable Player.

The midfielder is due back in Singapore on July 12.