Gary won’t be a timid Mousedeer as he seeks to revitalise career

Malaysia's Gary Steven Robbat (left) battle for the ball with Thailand's Narubadin Weerawatnodom (centre) during the Under-23 competition for a place in the semi-finals at the Bishan Stadium in Singapore. -IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/ The Star (June 4, 2015)

PETALING JAYA: Going from the Southern Tigers to the Mousedeer may seem like a tame move.

But combative midfielder Gary Steven Robbat believes he can be a roaring presence for Melaka after joining on loan from Johor Darul Ta’zim.

The 28-year-old Kulim-born Gary looks forward to more regular playing time under coach Zainal Abidin Hassan with the aim of revitalising his career.

“When the opportunity came, my employers told me to take it. They know I needed game time, and I always wanted to play in the Super League after playing in the Premier League with JDT II, ” said the former international, who has 11 caps.

“It’s time for me to showcase my abilities again because in the past, I had to battle with lots of injuries and it stunted my growth a little. Whenever I picked up form, something happens. But now, I’m feeling good and fully fit.”

When Gary first broke into the Malaysian football scene, he was lauded for his fearless character, noted for his crunching tackles and incessant pressing in the middle of the park.

Many rated him highly, but injuries and inconsistency hampered his progress.

Now, after a warm welcome aboard by Zainal at Melaka, Gary is highly motivated to prove his worth.

“I believe I have what it takes to help Melaka achieve their goals, ” he added.

Besides Gary, the Mousedeer have also signed two Brazilian strikers - Adriano Narciso and Giovanne Gomes - to boost their attack, as they look to escape the drop zone when the season resumes next month.

Melaka are 11th in the Super League with 11 points. They were deducted three points earlier due to players’ salary arrears.