“The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) is extremely disappointed with Mr Benjamin Davis’ default of his NS obligations. It is thoroughly irresponsible on the part of Mr Davis, and also reneges on his (and his father’s) assurance to the FAS that Mr Davis would discharge his NS commitments and play for the Singapore national team.

“Mr Davis had lived in Singapore for many years, and has benefited from the resources used to educate and train him as a footballer over this period of time.  He was invited to play for the Singapore national team, and he agreed.

“The FAS had supported Benjamin Davis’ application to defer NS on this basis.

“While the matter will now be dealt with by Mindef, the FAS wish to state categorically that we do not condone such conduct nor did it ever arise in our discussions with Mr Davis that he would seek to avoid his liability.”

– FAS spokesman