Hong Kong’s adverse weather conditions has encouraged the Premier League to explore new options.
Singapore could be in line to host the 2015 Asia Trophy, according to Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore.
Three out of the last four editions of the pre-season tournament have been held Hong Kong last weekend’s fixtures were nearly mothballed after heavy rain left the playing surfaces at the Hong Kong Stadium resembling a swamp.
Scudamore hinted to reporters that it is time for a change of scenery before suggesting Singapore could be the next stop for the trophy with the new Sports Hub in Kallang giving them a prominent advantage.
“We will make pitch quality and pitch durability, sustainability and preparation a very important criteria,” he told Asia One.
“In Singapore next year, they are opening a Desso-pitched, closing- roof stadium, so places like that are going to be in contention.”
The Desso surface – also used by Manchester United, Real Madrid and Arsenal – merges natural grass and artificial fibres that blend together during the growing process with designers claiming it creates a solid, even surface that drains more efficiently than a standard pitch.
And Singapore Sports Hub chief executive Philippe Collin says he will entertain the possibilty of organising the Asia Trophy in two-years time and believes they possess the accoutrements to make it a success.
“The new National Stadium design will allow us to close the roof fully to protect the field before and during events,” Collin said.
“Such features should be a decisive advantage for event organisers, when compared to fully open venues.”
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