Kedah can count on wise Ariff to take over leadership

New role: Ariff Farhan Isa (right) believes it is time for others to step up, including himself.

PETALING JAYA: Wingback Ariff Farhan Isa is ready to take over the leadership in the absence of seniors Baddrol Bakhtiar and Rizal Ghazali for Kedah in the Malaysian League.

Wingback Rizal and midfielder Baddrol were synonymous with the Red Eagles but they shocked many by joining Sabah this season.

Instead of worrying about the loss, Ariff believes it is time for others to step up, including himself.

Others who have played for more than five seasons for Kedah are goalkeeper Ifwat Akmal Chek Kassim, midfielder Amirul Hisyam Awang Kechik and winger Syazwan Zainon.

Ariff said the seniors would combine forces to lead the team.

“Bad (Baddrol) and Jai (Rizal) have been with us through thick and thin. They are our big brothers, so obviously, we were upset when they decided to move on,” said Ariff.

“They were friendly and were always there for the youngsters. They have left a vacuum, but I believe others can fill that.

“The team are going through changes and we are rebuilding the chemistry among the players.

“Ifwat, Syazwan, Amirul and I will guide the youngsters and work on our combination with some of the seasoned names whom we have signed (like Jang Suk-won, Marc Vales and Amirul Azhan Aznan).”

Ariff, who is naturally a rightback, has been used as a leftback often last season and expects the same for the new season.

Though his dominant foot is right, he said he has no issues playing as a leftback.

“In terms of positioning and movement, I am used to it. The only thing that needs some work is the chemistry with other defenders,” he said.

Last season, Kedah finished second in the Super League.