It was out with the old, in with the older, as Ang Leong Kum's departure paved the way for the much-loved Yuki Irie to make a quick return from Chile's Semilla RK. An instant favourite after bursting onto the scene with six goals in his first six games, his next twelve would bring nothing but a yellow card, and dipping form soon saw the Semilla support turning on him.

With head coach José María Monasterio offering but lukewarm reassurance, and with favoured midfield partner Jacob Kallesø dealt to Campseoul F.C., Yuki would publicly question the club's direction, and was informed in no uncertain terms that he could move on. Quite fortuitously for him, the Birds happened to be in the market for a dependable defender-midfielder, and a call to Djan Bacelar sealed the round million-dollar deal.

The former vice-captain will reassume that role, while swopping back to his old Number Three shirt, from the Number Six he wore at Semilla RK. This announcement was met with much enthusiasm from the Grilled faithful, many of whom had expected the local lad to retire with the club - something that now appears very likely indeed.

"All I can say is, it's great to be back!" Yuki exclaimed at his informal meet-and-greet. "Some new faces, but the same old feel."

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