I-League's Real Kashmir FC has roped in former Pakistani defender Kashif Siddiqion on loan from Oxford United.
Siddiqi is the second new foreign signing for the Kashmir-based football club after Kallum Higginbotham was brought in from Dunfermline Athletic FC in June this year.
“We’re delighted that Kash is going to Real Kashmir,” Oxford United's Director Zaki Nuseibah said. “As club owners, we have a responsibility to continuously work on initiatives through which we can use football for the wider good. I am confident that Kash will be a great asset to the Real Kashmir FC squad as a loanee from Oxford United FC. He will also undoubtedly be passionately carrying a message of peace to a region so desperate for it.”
Siddiqi, who is also the co-founder of a UN initiative called Football for Peace, said, “I can't thank them (Oxford) enough and I feel fit and ready to go out on loan to Real Kashmir, which will happen soon after I get back from America.” The 33-year-old will be addressing the UN General Assembly next week to speak on the power of football.
The UK-based player made his international debut for the Pakistan U-23 team at the 2008 Beijing Olympic qualifiers. He also played for the senior team at the 2008 South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championships in Maldives.
Siddiqi last played for Pakistan at the AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers in Kuala Lumpur in 2011.
