KL looking to consolidate their place among big boys

PETALING JAYA: Newlypromoted Kuala Lumpur believe they can hold their own against the Super League big boys.

Their coach Fabio Magrao reckons that his beefed-up squad are capable of putting on a creditable show in their first season after a five-year absence.

“No disrespect but I think there’s not much difference between the Premier League and the Super League teams. We’ll be OK.

“Our target this season is to remain in the Super League since we are just returning to the top flight. In 2019 we’ll be looking to win titles.”

KL have bolstered their squad with three foreigners – midfielders Junior Aparecido, Paolo Josue and striker Guilherme De Paula.

They have also roped in former internationals – Indra Putra Mahayuddin, winger Zaquan Adha Razak and defender Firdaus Faudzi.

Magrao said the new signings need more time to play according to his philosophy.

“We have the core of the team from last season and added some seasoned players. The new players need a bit more time to adapt,” said the 40-year-old Brazilian.

Magrao is optimistic the players will click in time when the season starts on Feb 3.

In their friendly on Saturday, they defeated Super League team PKNS 1-0 through Hisyamuddin Shaari’s 34th minute strike at the Cheras Football Stadium.

“It’s always good to win but at this stage I’m looking more at the team’s performance,” added Magrao, who ended KL’s 17-year title drought by clinching the second-tier Premier League title last season.

“In the first half our possessions, passing and attacking were good.

“In the second half, I changed the players and they did well to stop PKNS from scoring.”

“I believe in a few more weeks the players will be ready to show their true potential.”