17-year-old Ben Davis, who signed a two-year contract with Fulham, tried to get a postponement from the National Service (NS) of Singapore, but was refused by the authorities.

It is reported that he "does not meet the criteria for postponement".

The player's father noted that it was "unrealistic" to expect that Ben could take a two-year pause in football and then again engage in it at a high level.

All Singaporean men on the achievement of the 18th anniversary must serve in the army, police or civil defense for two years within the framework of the National Assembly.

"All men of Singapore are obliged to serve the National Assembly, putting aside personal interests.

It would be unfair to grant a request for a postponement for individuals who pursue their own career goals and development, "said the Minister of Defense.

"Delays are possible only for those athletes who represent Singapore in international tournaments, such as the Olympic Games and can bring medals to Singapore".

Singaporeans in social networks expressed dissatisfaction with the decision of the minister. Some even called on Ben to renounce Singaporean citizenship.

It is worth noting that the player has not only Singaporean passport, but also British, as well as Thai.