two centrebacks who can make Chin aun and santokh proud.
Keeper Farizal: Norhafiz and aidil remind me of Chin aun and santokh
Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) goalkeeper Farizal Zamani Marlias said two current centrebacks remind him a lot of two Malaysian legends – Soh Chin Aun and Santokh Singh.
The 34-year-old, who shared his choice of the first 11, likened Norhafiz Misbah’s playing style to Chin Aun while teammate Aidil Zafuan Abdul Razak manned the backline like Santokh.
“If Angah (Norhafiz) is calm and composed, his combination with Aidil would be ideal because the latter is someone who loves to challenge and make life difficult for forwards,” said Farizal.
“Angah’s patience mirrors Chin Aun while Aidil is more like Santokh because of his stern character. They would make a great pair.”
Negri Sembilan’s Norhafiz last played for the national team in 2011 while Aidil at 32 still remains an integral part of the squad.
Farizal, who played with Norhafiz during his Negri days from 2010 to 2012, said the defender, who is now 38, still commands much respect. Apart from his leadership qualities, his intelligent play in manning the defence stood out for Farizal.
The custodian admitted that his time with Norhafiz proved to be one of his best seasons with the team before moving to Perlis.
“Angah is well respected by everyone. Players like him make my job easier.”
Farizal picked teammates Izham Tarmizi as the goalkeeper while S. Kunanlan and La’Vere Corbin Ong completes his backline.
In midfield, he opted for Melaka’s Safiq Rahim and the JDT duo of Nazmi Faiz Mansor and Afiq Fazail.
The strikers are JDT’s Luciano Figueroa, Safawi Rasid and Gonzalo Cabrera.