Eligible foreigners must talk to clubs if they want to play for Malaysia

PETALING JAYA: Eligible foreign players should talk to their clubs if they want to play for the national team.

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) secretary-general Stuart Ramalingam said clubs should work on expediting their process of becoming Malaysians as done by several clubs in the past.

He cited the cases of Junior Eldstal (pic), Brendan Gan, Matthew Davies and Mohamadou Sumareh as examples.

“The clubs helped them to fulfil their wishes. They were already Malaysians when they were called up by the national team,” said Stuart.

“Players like (Guilherme) De Paula, Liridon (Krasniqi) and (Lee) Tuck will need to talk to their clubs if they have any intentions.

“In De Paula and Liridon’s case, they have to wait for a few more months before applying, while Terengganu need to assist Tuck. “Players and clubs need to work together. “It would benefit the clubs because they have an extra slot for foreign players.”

Stuart added that FAM had a shortlist of players who are going to complete their five-year stay in Malaysia and the body will have a word with some of them in the future.

“At the end of the day, they must play for the flag and not just think about getting exposure in international football.

“For me, Malaysia must be in their heart. “These players should give their all, and we do not want individuals who are in it for their own interest.”

De Paula had said that he is eager to don the national jersey but have not heard from anyone yet.

“Even my agent has not been notified. For me, Malaysia is like my own home,” said the Brazilian.

“I would be proud to help Malaysia do well. “I am now in my fifth year and I hope I can get to play for the national team soon.”

FAM deputy president Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mahadi, who is also the chairman of the Naturalisation Programme Committee, said De Paula and Krasniqi are on their radar.

Sumareh is the first naturalised player to represent Malaysia when he came on as a substitute against Sri Lanka in a friendly on Oct 12.