Kipre means business

Let’s dance: Terengganu’s Tchetche Kipre (centre) celebrating after scoring his second goal during the 2018 Malaysia Cup final against Perak.

PETALING JAYA: Ivorian striker Tchetche Kipre knows his return to Terengganu is not just about scoring goals.

The 34-year-old revealed that he decided on the move as the club also wanted him to guide their prodigious young talents.

“I’m not coming in to do something new. The club have kept most of their young locals and they are banking on experienced foreigners like me to speed up their growth in the game,” said Kipre.

“The team craved success and a place in the AFC Cup but we also want to show that the state is not short on talents. The aim is to produce players who can be top guns in the near future.

“I’ve seen these youngsters and I’ve to say, I’m excited. They are very talented and I can’t wait to play alongside them.”

Last year in the Super League, Kipre was a standout for Kedah with 10 goals and was the best provider with 11 assists.

And it’s no surprise that he is a wanted man. He said he has had offers from several local clubs and abroad but when Terengganu showed their interest, he did not think twice.

He has had a productive two-year stint with the Turtles, scoring 29 goals in 51 appearances.

He also hoped to continue his deadly partnership with Kpah Sherman, who followed him from Kedah.

Terengganu mean business this season and have strengthened the team with the signings of centreback Adib Zainuddin (Johor Darul Ta’zim II), Senegalese defender Pape Diakite (Vietnam’s Sai Gon) and the Philippines midfielder Manuel Ott (Melaka).

“It’s familiar territory for me and I know coach Nafuzi’s (Zain) philosophy. So adaptation will not be an issue,” he added.

“I know the city, love the food and most importantly, the people. And we all know how passionate the fans are. With their support we definitely can achieve something.”