Adding bite to Harimau Malaya
THE time has come for national Under-23 players to gain more exposure at a higher level and the best way for them to do so is with the national senior squad, the Harimau Malaya.
Ong Kim Swee’s boys have proven their worth by making history in advancing to the quarter-finals of the AFC Under-23 Championship on their debut, something none of the country’s national side have been able to achieve before.
The players played their hearts out and were widely praised for their spirited performance against Asian giants South Korea on Saturday despite going down 2-1 at the Kunshan Stadium.
Team captain Adam Nor Azlin feels that with the players’ new found confidence, they are ready to take on more responsibilities with the national senior team.
“For me, this is the best team as the players have heart and fighting spirits.
“For every position there are capable replacements who are ready to play when called upon.
“If more than just a few of us are called up to the national senior team, then it will be something to be very proud of.
“I feel the time has come for younger players to be given the chance for exposure to a higher level,” aid the defensive stalwart.
Adam is among several Under23 players who have made appearances with the national senior team along with Matthew Davies, Nor Azam Azih, Safawi Rasid, Syamer Kutty Abba and Ahmad Syihan Hazmi Mohamed.
The other players being considered for call-ups to the national senior squad under coach Tan Cheng Hoe are Akhyar Abdul Rashid, Irfan Zakaria, Syazwan Andik, Danial Amier Norhisham and Haziq Nadzli.