Making up the numbers in Selangor just won’t do for Aliff

Aliff Haiqal in action for Selangor during their Malaysia Cup game against Melaka. - Photo by Selangor Fc

PETALING JAYA: Watch out for the name Aliff Haiqal Lokman Hakim Lau (pic) in the 2021 Super League season.

Aliff is one of Selangor’s five players promoted from Selangor II for the new season.

The other players are striker Ahmad Danial Ahmad Asri, leftback Ahmad Zikri Khalili, centreback Sharul Nazeem Zulphakar and goalkeeper Sikh Izhan Sikh Nazrel.

Aliff showed what he was capable of when he starred in four matches in the Super League last season. The 20-year-old was given a chance to strut his stuff after playing a key role in midfield for Selangor II in the Premier League.

He mixed well with the senior team, dictated the tempo from midfield, and showed great energy in all matches.

He also took the role of a deep-lying playmaker seriously as he made lots of through passes from midfield for the attackers.

The nippy playmaker said he did not want to make the numbers but would fight to earn a regular spot, now that he is officially in coach Karsten Neitzel’s team.

“As a youngster, I’ve nothing to lose, and I want to fight for my spot. Once I get it, I will fight in every game and repay the faith of the selectors, ” said Aliff.

“Since it is my first full season with the first team, I’ve to make sure I get my chemistry right with the seniors.

“I want to help Selangor win at least one trophy and compete in the Asian stage next year.”

He said training under Neitzel has been good.

“The team are technically and tactically better since we started our pre-season training. Also, his character has rubbed off well with the players, and we can see that he is passionate and dedicated on and off the field.”

From the President Cup to the first team, Aliff hopes to continue to grow.

“From the Under-21 to the first team, it’s been great. At every chance, I fought hard. It’s every player’s dream to become a professional.

“2020 has been my best year so far as I played in two competitive leagues and learnt from it.

“I hope to be a top playmaker in the future.”