KL sign up pint-sized Haziq in bid to pump up engine room
KUALA LUMPUR: Kuala Lumpur have strengthened their engine room with the inclusion of Mohd Haziq Muiz (pic) from defunct club Felcra.
Head coach Yusri Che Lah handpicked the 22-year-old midfielder after he showed glimpses of his ability when Kuala Lumpur won 4-1 in a friendly against Penang last week.
Then, the youngster was not offered a contract as the team wanted to assess his performance first.
His performance certainly merited a contract as he dictated from the middle of the park and showed vision and tenacity even though he was the smallest player on the pitch.
Yusri said Haziq would be an important cog for the city side.
“He was the livewire in that match, and we need someone who understands the team’s style of play. Haziq fits the bill,” said Yusri.
“Haziq showed that he could hold his own in the middle and I believe he has what it takes to improve the team.”
Haziq played three matches for Felcra last season, and before that he played for Perlis in the FAM league.
Kuala Lumpur also confirmed the signing of lanky defender Khair Jones, who joins the team from Melaka.
The 29-year-old was signed to plug Kuala Lumpur’s leaky defence, which conceded 70 goals in all competitions last season.
Yusri certainly emphasised on the need to strengthen the team’s defence and find a balance in attack and defence.
Khair played in the match against Penang and impressed with his game assessment and ability to nullify attacks with his timely interceptions.
“Khair looks composed and will add much needed experience to our backline,” said Yusri.
Kuala Lumpur retained 85% of last season’s squad and had signed Dutch striker Sylvano Dominique Comvalius, Japanese midfielder Ryutaro Karube, defenders Jones, Fitri Omar, Alif Samsudin, Haziq and goalkeeper Faridzuean Kamarudin.
On the team’s preparation, Yusri said he would focus on match fitness and build their endurance for next season.
“I want the players to entertain the fans. To me, football is like a dance. I want everyone to be on their toes and enjoy the game.
“I want the players to express themselves and entertain the fans,” he added.