Negri defender Khuzaimi now the centre of attraction in Kim’s squad

Ahmad Khuzaimi: ‘I want to help Malaysia get to the Asian Cup and also help Negri attain success in the league.’

PETALING JAYA: Ahmad Khuzaimi Piee is the rave of the town, with many calling him the perfect example of a modern centreback.

His performances have not been noticed over the years, but his sparkling performances for Negri Sembilan in the Super League and two solid games for Malaysia this year have got fans talking.

The left-footed player has a penchant for taking free-kicks and is comfortable in a two or three-man defence.

Fondly known as Jimmy, he exudes calmness and is not one to make hasty clearances or tackles.

With such traits, it is no wonder that national coach Kim Pan-gon picked him for the friendly against Brunei and he repaid the faith with an astute performance in Malaysia’s 4-0 win last Friday.

He also stood out when the Harimau Malaya beat the Philippines 2-0 in an international friendly in Singapore earlier this year.

When asked what was the drive behind his sterling displays, the 28-year-old Khuzaimi said: “The coach tells, you execute.

“Against Brunei, the coach implemented a lot of things, and we were able to follow through. Hopefully, we’ll get better and be in tune with coach Kim’s ways against Hong Kong on Wednesday.

“I believe I’m doing well because of the guidance of my coaches. In Negri, coach Devan has been instrumental, also experienced teammates like Herold Goulon and the other defenders have helped elevate my game.

“In the national squad, I’ve learnt from the country’s best players. In such environment, you can only improve and I’m thankful for that.”

One thing that Khuzaimi has shown so far this season is adaptability, as he is game to partner with anyone in defence.

For the national team, he has played with Shahrul Saad and Junior Eldstal, while for Negri, he has combined alongside Goulon, Nasrullah Haniff Johan and Annas Rahmat.

“I want to help Malaysia get to the Asian Cup and also help Negri attain success in the league. We have been doing well and that must continue.”

After the Hong Kong match at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil tomorrow, Khuzaimi and Co will compete in the final round of the Asian Cup qualifiers.

They will play Turkmenistan (June 8), Bahrain (June 11) and Bangladesh (June 14). All matches will be played at the National Stadium.