His naturalisation comes through the Foreign Sports Talent Scheme, a programme that allows athletes with no birth or ancestral ties to become Singapore citizens. Ng qualifies because his late paternal grandfather, James, was born in Singapore.

Ng is the first footballer to be granted citizenship under the scheme since China‑born Qiu Li did so in 2010. FAS president Forrest Li said Singapore takes a “disciplined approach”, insisting players must integrate into society and accept the responsibilities of citizenship.

The Football Association of Singapore is now finalising the FIFA eligibility paperwork so Ng can officially play for the Lions. The move reflects Singapore’s strategy of strengthening its national team while ensuring new players are fully committed to the country.