Ricciuto, 26, helped spearhead Brunei DPMM to the title overnight after results went the club’s way meaning Hougang United could not sustain their title challenge.

Brunei was top for most of the season but held off a late challenge from Hougang, who drew 4-4 after being 3-0 down on the weekend.

And Ricciuto, formerly of Rockdale Suns, played a huge part in the club’s success.

The 26-year-old scored a staggering nine goals in 21 games - hugely impressive for a defensive midfielder.

He also racked up two assists and was awarded player of the month and goal of the month in April.

It’s been an extraordinary season for a player who was in the semi pro-NPL last season but took his chance with a trial in Brunei last December.

“It was pretty nervous watching the 4-4 game with all our staff and players, it was the result that won us the title, though, so lot’s of celebrations when the final whistle went,” Ricciuto told FTBL.

Ricciuto is now hot property across Asia after his stunning season.

“Very happy to have won the league with two games to spare," he said today.

“Can’t believe it. If you asked me at the start of the season I’d become champion of Singapore Premier League, I wouldn’t have believed it.

“But we did it, it was a team effort, can’t complain about this season at all.”