United we stand
Adam yet to start a game but feels at home with Harimau Malaya family
PETALING JAYA: Newly-wed Adam Nor Azlin has not started a game in the AFF Suzuki Cup but the versatile defender is not perturbed as long as the team stay united and successful.
Calling the team a harmonious lot that’s akin to a family, the Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) player said the tournament experience has been great so far and hoped his teammates would make it sweeter by winning the coveted trophy.
Malaysia take on Vietnam in the first leg final tomorrow at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil. The return leg will be in Hanoi onSaturday.
“I’m glad and thankful to Allah for giving me this experience. I cannot fault the effort of the players because they’ve given their all,” said the 22-year-old Adam.
“There is no difference between the senior and junior players. We share everything and the environment is harmonious. We work hard, trust and rely on each other and we pray for the well-being of every player.
“Even if I don’t get to start, I’m not going to be disappointed. Whether I’m regular or a substitute, for me, the team come first,” he said.
Adam, who just got married to Nur Azlin Md Mazlan a week ago, said winning the final would be the best wedding gift ever and admit- ted that marriage has added some zing to his performance.
“My wife is my strength. I want to do my best for her, my country, teammates and my family.”
With Aidil Zafuan Abdul Radzak an injury concern for Malaysia, Adam and Muhammad Irfan Zakaria are in contention to start alongside regular centreback Shahrul Mohd Saad.
When asked if he was prepared to play in the final, Adam said: “I’ll play my usual game if I’m selected. I’m a professional and pressure is something that I’ve to cope with. The final is a different challenge but if the coach wants me to play, I’ll be prepared.
“Whether there is Aidil or not, everyone will have to shoulder the responsibility of bringing the trophy back to Malaysia.”
He added that Aidil has been a great help to all youngsters and he has learnt a lot from the experienced centreback, who is also his teammate in JDT.
We work hard, trust and rely on each other and we pray for the well-being of every player. Adam Nor Azlin