SINGAPORE — The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) have ­appointed Guy Martens as its consulting goalkeeper coach on a short-term contract, with the four-month stint to run from September until the end of the year. 

The 56-year-old Belgian — who left Belgium’s Pro League club KRC Genk in June after almost 25 years on the job — is credited with developing Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, as well as Celtics FC’s ­Logan Bailly and Porto’s Sinan Bolat, who is currently on loan to Club Brugge.

Martens’ role with the FAS will see him working with technical ­director Michel Sablon and Richard Tardy, the newly appointed head coach of youth national teams, to ­enhance the training and development of goalkeepers across the age-group teams, as well as helping to train the local goalkeeping coaches.

The FAS had approached Martens with the offer to work with ­local football on a project basis after learning of his departure from Genk. 

“To have someone of his stature coaching our goalkeepers in Singapore and guiding our goalkeeper coaches would be tremendously beneficial to us,” said Sablon today (Sept 3).

"His experience is invaluable and we are delighted to welcome him to Singapore.”

Added FAS president Zainudin Nordin: “FAS is always striving to strengthen the capabilities of our management and technical personnel, which would better position us to tackle the challenges in an ever-changing environment and also to bring the organisation to the next level. 

“Going forward, we will continue to work towards securing the support of our key partners and thereafter bring on board more personnel with a strong track record to further facilitate the progress of local football in all aspects.”

Martens had intended to take a break from coaching, but was persuaded to take on a temporary stint with Singapore football. 

“I could have remained in ­Europe but I decided to take up this challenge as I strongly believe in the ­vision and direction of the Singapore Federation,” he said. 

“I look forward to playing my part in bringing Singapore football to the next level.” 

Courtois, who had previously urged Chelsea to hire Martens, sent his well-wishes to his former coach, as he said: “Singapore will definitely benefit from having Guy on board. He is the best goalkeeper coach I have ever worked with, and I learnt everything from him. He is very special and committed, and helped me improve as a player.  

“I would have loved to work with him again, but I am happy for him that he is going on a new adventure in Singapore.”