TRUSTED CAPTAIN
Safiq to remain as national skipper despite controversy
NATIONAL captain Safiq Rahim is unlikely to escape punishment for swearing at critics and opposition fans after Saturday’s Malaysia Cup final.
Despite his disgraceful act, national coach Nelo Vingada still wants Safiq Rahim to captain his team in the Asian Cup qualifier against North Korea.
The midfielder is suspended for the first match against North Korea in Buriram on Friday following a red card in the 20 defeat to Hong Kong last month.
However, Safiq will return as captain when Malaysia play North Korea again on Monday at the same venue.
Safiq, who plays for Johor Darul Ta’zim, appeared to be swearing at his critics (probably rival fans) after the Malaysia Cup final where his side defeated Kedah 2-0. The video went viral.
Former FA of Malaysia (FAM) disciplinary committee chairman Kamarudin Abdullah said Safiq should be held accountable.
“The disciplinary committee has the right to investigate the incident even though it was after the final whistle. The current committee must look into this seriously,” said Kamaruddin.
“Safiq was wrong and he should have acted appropriately as he is a professional player.
“Based on similar cases in the past, Safiq is likely to be fined and suspended. However, it will be up to the current committee to decide.”
Datuk Baljit Singh Sidhu, who is the current disciplinary committee chairman, said they are still waiting for reports from concerned parties on the incident.
Vingada said: “Of course, Safiq is still the captain. He will put on the armband after he serves suspension on Friday for the second match against North Korea three days later.
“We have spoken about the red card (against Hong Kong). I cannot blame him for it as even Frenchman Zinedine Zidane was sent off in the 2006 World Cup final.
“Sometimes, a player can lose control, but I believe Safiq will come back stronger,” said Vingada.