Jose Elmer “OJ” Porteria (From OJ’s Facebook account)
MANILA – Former national team mainstay Jose Elmer “OJ” Porteria is set to join an influx of Filipino footballers who are playing in the Thai League 1.
United City, where Porteria played in the recently concluded Philippines Football League (PFL) season, confirmed the development on Monday.
"On behalf of UCFC, we would like to thank OJ for his tremendous efforts and commitment to the club. We wish him well with his new club in Thailand," the club said in a statement.
Porteria, who had 22 caps for the Azkals, joined United City, previously known as Ceres Negros, in 2017 after spending five seasons with Kaya Iloilo.
The 26-year-old striker was a vital figure in United City's four-peat in the PFL, helping Bienve Maranon in the club's offensive.
"We hope that good memories about your time with us remain beyond just scored goals and lifted trophies," United City further stated.
It remains uncertain as to which club Porteria will play for the rest of the Thai League 1 season, but United City hopes that Porteria will continue to wave the Philippine flag in Thailand like how his fellow current and former Azkals are now doing there.
"Be safe and continue to be an ambassador for Philippine football," United City's final message to Porteria reads. (PNA)
