Eyes on the prize
Deevan puts aside financial woes to focus on Melaka’s Cup quest
PETALING JAYA: S. Deevan Raj is willing to put aside his financial problems to help Melaka create history in the Malaysia Cup.
On Thursday, captain Shukor Adan posted on Instagram that they have not been paid their salaries for the past three months.
The 24-year-old winger, who has been a regular in the Cup ties, said senior players like Safiq Rahim, Shukor and Razman Roslan have been instrumental in keeping players’ morale high despite their predicament.
“They told us not to give up hope despite the setback. They have won it all and now they want the other players to produce something to be proud of,” said Deevan.
“Melaka have been to the quarter-finals several times but never beyond that.
“This season, we have a chance to do that if we set aside our problems and concentrate fully on the matches ahead.
“I believe this team can create history.”
The Mousedeer will play in a tough two-legged quarter-final against Pahang and will kick off their campaign at home today.
Despite the financial woes, Deevan is loving life in Melaka and has attributed this to coach Zainal Abidin Hassan, who is like a father figure to him.
Having plied his trade in PKNP for almost three years, he felt he needed a change to improve as a footballer.
“I wanted to test myself with a different club and Melaka have given me a new and different experience.
“The coach believes in me and my recent good performances is thanks to him.
“He is always pushing and motivating me. I’ve worked with many coaches before and he is the best.”
Deevan, who has scored two goals and two assists in six matches, said Pahang should never be underestimated as they are one of the top sides in the country.
“They finished second in the Super League and topped their group in the Malaysia Cup.
“Their imports are also one of the best in the country.
“If we don’t stop them at home, we’ll be in for a rough ride in the return match.”