Taylor’s a good fit for Sarawak

Borneo calling: Taylor Regan (right) believes the environment at Sarawak United can push him to greater heights.

PETALING JAYA: Australian defender Taylor Regan will be embracing the unknown when he sets foot in the Land of the Hornbills after signing for Sarawak United.

The former Selangor and Negri Sembilan centreback has never been to Sarawak but has heard many good things about the Borneo state from his fellow professionals Ryan Griffiths and Junior Eldstal.

The passionate fans, serene environment and affable people persuaded Regan to take a chance with Premier League outfit Sarawak United.

“It’s a move not solely motivated by money. I had a few options in the Super League but for me, at the age of 32, they offered a two-year deal and I believe in the club’s project. Their immediate plan is to win promotion, ” said Regan.

“The team have also signed many experienced names like Mat Yo (Norshahrul Idlan Talaha), Gopi (R. Gopinathan) and Christie (Jeyaseelan) but they also have Sarawakian identity in the form of players like Ashri (Chuchu) and Tommy (Mawat Bada).

“We’re going there with a mission, and that is to give the people of Sarawak a team they can be proud of. Kuching had a good campaign last year in the Premier League, and it’s good to have some rivalry with them.

“While Sarawak United are a new brand, they still carry the badge of the Sarawak Football Association. So we’ll surely do something that will make the fans proud.”

Regan is aware that a professional footballer’s career has a short lifespan but he believes that the environment in Sarawak can push him to greater heights. The competition in the Premier League will also be challenging as many sides are strengthening their squads.

“I consider myself one of the hardest workers in the game as I push myself to be an example to the other players.

“I need an environment where I can be pushed, and I think Sarawak has that.

“Coach K. Devan has gone to Negri and taken many strong players from Melaka and PJ City. As a former Negri player, I would love to see them do well – which is finishing second behind us, ” he joked.

“Due to the signings we made, Sarawak United want to be champions.”