Find out who’s bringing the ‘Messi’ factor to the national team.
Pint-sized Faiz aims to impress coach Cheng Hoe
PETALING JAYA: Diminutive Faiz Nasir is a prized catch for the national team.
At least, that’s what Selangor head coach B. Sathianathan thinks over the selection of his key player into the national team.
And he has urged Faiz, who stands only 1.52m, to bring the “Messi” factor into the national team by displaying his speed and trickery.
“For a guy his size, it’s amazing to see him with good physical and mental strength,” said Sathianathan.
“He always puts in a good shift. He’s confident. He can deliver for the national team if he puts his heart and soul into it.”
Malaysian fans have been praising Faiz for his dazzling show in the Super League so far.
Even though Selangor have not won any of their first five matches in the league, the 26-year-old Faiz has been one of the standout performers.
He makes up for his small size and boyish looks with his speed and dribbling.
The Selangor midfielder is one of the five uncapped players selected by national coach Tan Cheng Hoe for the Airmarine Cup (March 20-23). The others are Abdul Halim Saari (Sel), Nicholas Swirad (PKNS), Firdaus Saiyadi (Perak) and Hafiz Ramdan (PKNP).
Faiz was surprised with the callup.
“I was moved when I was called up by Cheng Hoe for the first time.
“I never thought that I would feature for the national team. I’m glad to be part of it now,” said Faiz.
“Competition for places will be fierce, but I’m up for it. Every player in the squad has their advantage. I’ve to give my best to earn the coach’s trust.”