Lae City sign Fugre

Sports

By PATRICIA KEAMO
CITY have recruited Morobe United’s Eliud Fugre for the remainder of the National Soccer League season as the Lae Biscuit Company-sponsored side aim to retain the title.
City head coach Bob Morris confirmed with The National yesterday that the midfielder was released from United on Monday following a request to the club.
He said Fugre would bring a lot of experience to the team.
“We also released Yagi Yasasa to Hekari United according to his wishes,” Morris said.
“Fugre brings in a lot of tactical experience, he was the captain of last year’s runners-up Vitiaz United.
“This season, he hasn’t been putting much effort at Morobe United.
“But I believe he will inject something into his performance, given the support he will receive from our players.
“I am no stranger to the way Eliude plays, I know his game.
“I worked with him during his youthful days.
“He is a very intelligent player and will fit in easily with midfielders Jacob Sabua and Emmanuel Simon.”
When asked whether Fugre would make his club debut on Saturday in City’s round-eight match against Morobe Wawens, Morris said it would depend on his fitness.
“We have to really assess his fitness, given he has only been us for a week,” he said.
“City have set a benchmark so every player has to fight for a spot each week and fitness will be a major requirement to get the nod.
“He may start or maybe the following weekend’s game with Lae City Dwellers.
“But I have until Thursday (tomorrow) to declare him fit for the game.”
Meanwhile, leading up to the second half of the season, Morris warned that his side were not complacent in their title defence.
“We have set our goals and there is nothing to stop us,” he said.