The Star Malaysia

Making Giant strides

Young Selangor skipper Sarkunan relishing big role

- By T. AVINESHWAR­AN

Wearing the captain’s armband in an illustriou­s team can be intimidati­ng for some.

But Selangor’s K. Sarkunan is taking it all in his stride and is, in fact, relishing at the responsibi­lity.

The Kajang-born player, who has been captaining the Red Giants in the last few matches, is expected to lead them against PKNP at the Manjung Municipal Council Stadium today.

With evergreen striker and former captain Amri Yahyah being used as an impact substitute, the 22-year-old Sarkunan is looking forward to taking charge again and help solidify Selangor’s third position in the standings.

“It actually feels good to be captain. Selangor have put their faith in youth and I’ll do my best to repay them,” he said.

“The transition is not that difficult as I’ve been watching Amri hold the fort in lots of matches.

“Amri is a legend. Thanks to him, I’m learning how to become a leader of a team with great history.

“I’m also learning shooting and passing techniques from him. It’s a money-can’t-buy experience.”

Sarkunan’s strong combinatio­n with Abdul Halim Saari in the middle has been much talked about but he said there is still room for improvemen­t.

“Halim is the quiet type but always comes up with big performanc­es. He’s a good intercepto­r and distributo­r of the ball while my job is to disrupt the rivals’ rhythm with my pressing game.

“Hopefully we will blend well against PKNP and return with full points.”

 ?? — IZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star ?? Leader of the pack: Selangor’s K. Sarkunan (left) celebratin­g with goalscorer Sandro Mendonca (centre) in the Super League match against Perak at the Shah Alam Stadium on April 12.
— IZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star Leader of the pack: Selangor’s K. Sarkunan (left) celebratin­g with goalscorer Sandro Mendonca (centre) in the Super League match against Perak at the Shah Alam Stadium on April 12.

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