Thambiah "Terry" Pathmanathan (born 9 February 1956) is a former Singapore international footballer who played as a defender. He played for Singapore and Pahang in the Malaysia Cup. Towards the end of his career, he played for Tampines Rovers in the inaugural S.League season in 1996, retiring from playing professionally in the same year.

Football career

Club career

He played generally in the role of sweeper, as the last man in defence. He was renowned for his poise on the ball and impeccable reading of the game. He was nicknamed "Captain Marvel", for his leadership qualities, and one of his trademark moves was the long throw-in. Among his national teammates, he was nicknamed "Ganesan's favourite" as one of the privileged ones under N. Ganesan when Ganesan was vice president of Football Association of Singapore. In 1982, Pathmanathan left Singapore FA to join Pahang FA. In 1983, he won the Malaysia Cup with the team. He played with Pahang till 1987 when his contracts end on 24 April 1988. Pathmanathan then rejoined Singapore FA with the Football Association of Singapore (FAS). In 1996, Pathmanathan signed with Tampines Rovers FC and became the oldest player in the S.League. In 1997, Pathmanathan joined National Football League Division 2 club Tessensohn Khalsa Rovers as a player-coach.

International career

In 1984, Pathmanathan was recalled to the national team for Merlion Cup. He was initially unable to join the team until he was released by Pahang.

Coaching career

Pathmanathan was the head coach for Young Lions from 2009 to 2010, and Tanjong Pagar United from 2011 to 2012.

Management career

In 1982, Pathmanathan worked as a supervisor at a mining company at Pahang and then worked as a marketing executive at a Kuantan Hotel. In 1997, he was an account manager with DNC Advertising. Pathmanathan is currently a senior manager with the Singapore Sports Council.

Personal life

Pathmanathan was offered Malaysian citizenship by the Sultan of Pahang, Ahmad Shah of Pahang, who was also the President of the Malaysian Football Association (FAM). Pathmanathan took up permanent residency instead.

Profile and achievements

Honours

Singapore FA Pahang FA Orders and special awards