Interest in Faisal by European clubs is inspirational for Turtles

In the spotlight: Terengganu’s Faisal Halim (left) caught the eyes of several professional clubs’ agents during Malaysia’s playing tour in Jordan.

PETALING JAYA: Terengganu’s nippy winger Faisal Halim is in the spotlight with agents from Europe showing keen interest in him but the Turtles do not see it as a distraction.

Coach Nafuzi Zain said the interest would not affect the team’s preparation and ambitious campaign in the Malaysia Cup, instead, it would only serve as a motivation.

He said it would be a proud moment for him and the state if the 23-year-old was signed up by a European club.

“For now, we only know that the agents have shown interest. We do not know if they are genuine, but if it is, then we will take it seriously because we want the best for Faisal’s career,” said Nafuzi.

“We are proud to see Faisal’s progress so far this season.

“He has done well for us, and performed well for the national team even though Malaysia lost against Jordan (0-4) and Uzbekistan (1-5).

Two of their other players Hakimi Abdullah and Arif Fadzillah also played well with the national team.

“As a coach, I am proud to see these boys progressing in their career. But, they must not be satisfied.

“The more recognition you get, the harder you must work. They are young and have all the ingredients to be even better.

“Faisal, Hakimi and Arif are under quarantine now, but I am not too worried because they know what to do to stay fit.”

In the Malaysia Cup, Terengganu have started well in Group B with wins against Kuching City (2-0) and Selangor (2-1). They will face Perak at the Perak Stadium in Ipoh on Oct 30.

Nafuzi admitted that their poor end to the Super League season, which saw them winning only one game in the last five matches, was a good lesson.

“I’ve friendlies against Kelantan and Kelantan United, which I believe will be good enough to keep the team in high-level shape. It’ll give me more ideas on what needs to be fixed.”