UTC+8 September 9 — Lion City Sailors have announced the appointment of Mark Jackson as their new head coach, pending approval of his employment pass.

The 48-year-old Englishman has signed a contract until June 30, 2027, and brings an impressive coaching record in Asian football, having led both Central Coast Mariners in Australia and Buriram United in Thailand to treble victories.

His proven ability to achieve success both domestically and at continental level aligns with Lion City Sailors' ambition to elevate their standing in Asian football and contend for titles in competitions such as the AFC Champions League Two and the ASEAN Club Championship.

Jackson said: "I am incredibly honored to join this outstanding football club. I look forward to getting started as soon as possible, meeting the players, staff, and fans, and becoming part of the club's journey."

"The club's ambition and vision were key factors in my decision to join, and I sincerely thank the owner, board, and sporting director for their trust and confidence in me."

"There is much to look forward to, and the new season is exciting. We will work together, raise our standards every day, and give our all to achieve our goals."

Assistant coach Cameron Toshack will join Lion City Sailors with Jackson, pending employment pass approval.

Jackson achieved remarkable success with Central Coast Mariners in the 2023/24 season, leading them to a league and playoff double in the A-League as well as the AFC Cup title — the final edition of the AFC's second-tier club competition, which was subsequently replaced by the AFC Champions League Two.

He joined Buriram United in October 2024 and secured a treble in the 2024/25 season — winning the Thai League, FA Cup, and Shopee Cup. Buriram United defeated Malaysia's Selangor FC over two legs in the Shopee Cup final in May, and Jackson also guided the team to the quarterfinals of the AFC Champions League Elite.

Lion City Sailors Executive Director Bruce Liang believes Jackson's coaching achievements and extensive experience in Asian football make him ideal to lead the club forward.

"Following changes to our first-team coaching staff last week, we moved swiftly and carefully to find the right head coach for Lion City Sailors."

"Mark's success in Australia and Thailand, coupled with his experience coaching in Asia's top club competitions, makes him an excellent fit for our ambitions. We are delighted to welcome him to the club."

"We also thank Varo Moreno and the coaching staff for stepping up on short notice to ensure stability for the first team during the transition."

Jackson will officially assume his head coach duties once his employment pass is approved. Until then, Varo Moreno will continue as interim head coach.

AF's PC site is now live! Browse full news, comments, match details and stats on your computer. Visit: www.allfootballapp.com