Ready to be Cruz missile against Red Giants

Patrick Cruz hopes he will be given the chance to hurt the Red Giants again on Saturday (Sept 1).

Earlier, the 25-year-old striker drew blood against Selangor in his debut for Pahang in a Super League match on Feb 25. He scored once in Pahang’s 3-1 win.

Cruz was again on target against the Red Giants in the FA Cup final on July 7, scoring a penalty as Pahang won 2-0.

But the Brazilian has since then been sidelined for almost two months by a groin injury.

Now, he eyes a comeback with Pahang against Selangor in a Malaysia Cup match on Saturday after undergoing

treatment at a private rehabilitation centre in Kuala Lumpur last week.

Cruz completed his first training session with his teammates today

and appears to be in high spirits.

Cruz, who previously played for Terangganu’s T-Team, said he has fully recovered and is ready for action against Selangor.

“I am feeling 100 per cent fine now. There is no sign of any pain or discomfort. I can sprint, dribble and shoot the ball, and hopefully score some goals too.”

“I am looking forward to play against Selangor as I have scored against them twice this year. However, securing three points is important as it will ensure us a spot in the Malaysia Cup quarterfinals before the final group match against Sabah,” he said.

Cruz, who was allegedly assaulted by two men while on holiday at Pulau Perhentian, Terengganu last month, said he was mentally and physically prepared to get back into action despite a cut on his head following the attack.

“I was injured in the FA Cup final and was not available for selection, and the attack was a separate matter which is being investigated by the police.

“Nothing has changed, I want to put the incident behind and get back on the field to help the team win,” he said.