All you need is love
Owen says countries must make football exciting again
PETALING JAYA: It’s time to make football enjoyable again.
The growing popularity of mobile and computer games has seen many children not going out to parks to play, and this has been a cause for concern for some.
Former England international Michael Owen even admitted that trying to get his son to go outside to play football is difficult.
“To me, it is essential to inspire young children to be active. Should get them to play sports in schools and clubs.
“Whenever I drive past the park these days, it can be empty at times. When I was young, everybody played football in parks. The world is always changing.
“In England’s case, they can produce footballers due to the elite academies. I think countries need to make the game exciting again. Show that you have a real passion for football and also make it enjoyable,” said Owen, who was part of a football clinic involving Selangor’s Under-19 players at the State Secretariat Field in Shah Alam yesterday.
He also said foreigners in local leagues should not be seen as a detriment to football development.
“I was made aware by the Football Association of Selangor (FAS) president (Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah) that each team are allowed to have four to five foreigners in the Super and Premier League of Malaysia,” added Owen.
“Instead of looking at a contrary point of view, young players should take this as an opportunity to learn from these players.”
The former Liverpool striker said Selangor have lots of potential youngsters and hoped that his tips would be beneficial for them in the future.
“Football is a difficult game. To get to the very top is everybody’s dream. It is very competitive, and hopefully, some of these players can go on to carve a fantastic long career.”
Tengku Amir, who was also at the event, said the Selangor youngsters gained lots of insights from the striker, who made his international debut at the age of 18.
“Players need someone to look up to. They need to know how he works as a professional footballer. There were lots of great input and we truly appreciate it,” said Tengku Amir.
“FAS are looking to develop the Under-12s and also organise youth leagues. We want players from schools to play and build a passion for the game.
“Once the passion comes, they will love football and show a hunger to win.” — Bernama