SINGAPORE, Sept 27 — Cardiff City defender Perry Ng has been granted Singapore citizenship and is awaiting Fifa clearance before he can represent the national football team, the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) announced on Sunday. 

According to CNA, the 30-year-old, who was born in England, revealed the development in an Instagram post, sharing a photograph of himself holding a Singapore passport.

“Proud to share that I’m now a Singapore citizen,” Ng wrote, adding that Singapore had long been part of his family’s history and had become home to him over the years.

FAS president Forrest Li said the association takes a “disciplined approach” when assessing players who may strengthen the national team, stressing that sporting ability is only one aspect of the process.

“Players must show that they can integrate into our society, and are prepared to take up the responsibilities that come with citizenship,” Li said, adding that Ng had demonstrated those qualities. 

The association confirmed it is completing the necessary Fifa eligibility paperwork before Ng can be selected for the Lions. 

Ng, who obtained Singapore permanent residency in March 2025, is the first footballer to gain citizenship under the Foreign Sports Talent Scheme since Qiu Li in 2010. The scheme has previously seen several foreign-born athletes granted Singapore citizenship, including footballers Agu Casmir, Mustafic Fahrudin and Shi Jiayi. 

Under Fifa regulations, Ng qualifies to play for Singapore through his late paternal grandfather, James, who was born in Singapore before later relocating to Liverpool. FAS said the defender has maintained strong ties with the country, regularly returning during the off-season to visit relatives and taking part in community activities as well as training sessions with the national team.Li said he had recently met Ng and described the defender as eager to begin the next chapter of his international career. 

FAS also acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, Sport Singapore and the Unleash The Roar! project in facilitating Ng’s citizenship application. 

Earlier this year, Ng signed a new two-year deal with Championship side Cardiff City, extending his stay at the Welsh club. 

The association has yet to indicate when Ng could receive his first call-up, with Fifa clearance still pending.