KUALA LUMPUR — Former Fulham and Cardiff City goalkeeper Neil Etheridge has dismissed rumours linking him with a move to Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT).
The experienced goalkeeper was previously speculated as a potential replacement for national goalkeeper Syihan Hazmi, who is reportedly attracting interest from clubs competing in the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) this season.
Speaking to Scoop, Etheridge, who once represented England at the under-16 level, confirmed his commitment to Buriram United, where he is contracted until 2026, and ruled out any plans to leave.
“I’m not joining JDT and I enjoy being at my current club. I love the atmosphere here and appreciate progressing with my team by playing in the ACLE. There was a time when I received an offer but I rejected it.
“I’m not very familiar with Malaysian football or JDT, but I’m happy in Thailand. I love playing in the Thai League. It’s a very competitive and challenging league, and it’s helping me grow further.
“On top of that, there are several young goalkeepers at this club, and I’m enjoying the process of sharing my extensive knowledge with the young lads.”
Etheridge was speaking after the Philippines’ 2-1 loss to Malaysia in the Merdeka Tournament opener at Bukit Jalil National Stadium yesterday.
A mainstay in the Philippines national team since 2008, Etheridge has earned 81 caps. He also made history as the first Filipino to play in the English Premier League during his stint with Cardiff City in 2018.
In yesterday’s match, the Philippines, known as the Azkals, took the lead in the 28th minute through an own goal by Malaysia’s Feroz Baharudin, who deflected Jefferson Tabinas’ low drive into the net.
However, Malaysia equalised in the 43rd minute courtesy of Syamer Kutty Abba, with Safawi Rasid scoring the winning goal from the penalty spot in the 73rd minute.
The Philippines will face Tajikistan in the third-place match on Sunday. — September 5, 2024