Striker Shahrel aims to regain form under Cheng Hoe

Man on a mission: Shahrel Fikri Md Fauzi heading for Selangor’s training session. — Selangor FC

PETALING JAYA: If there is one player who looks set to come out of his rut, it has to be Selangor striker Shahrel Fikri Md Fauzi.

And he believes that an opportunity to restore his respectable stature in the field has come in the form of new coach Tan Cheng Hoe.

Shahrel and Cheng Hoe used to work together in the national team, and the former had always been used as a striker.

In 2020, the 27-year-old Shahrel became one of the talked about players in Malaysia when he ended up as Perak’s top scorer. He netted 10 goals in 11 matches in the Super League, and the year before, he scored four goals in two games for Harimau Malaya.

That earned him a move to Selangor last year, but since joining the Red Giants he has not been able to reach the heights of 2020 due to injuries and poor form.

This season, Shahrel has played 15 matches in all competitions but only started in three, scoring just a goal.Many believe that he will get his chance under Cheng Hoe.

And for a starter, Shahrel knows the game against Melaka at the Petaling Jaya Stadium today will be the best platform to make an impression.

“My fitness level is not at its best because I’ve not gotten many minutes this season. Firstly, I have to gain the coach’s belief, and I hope I can do my best against Melaka,” said Shahrel.

“Every coach has his own style of management and play. We know coach Cheng Hoe always emphasises on possession football, and I believe the boys can replicate what he wants.

“We will get a chance to prove our credentials and that includes me.

“During training, I’ve worked hard to show what I’m capable of and let’s hope it shows against Melaka.”

Shahrel revealed that since the arrival of Cheng Hoe, the boys have warmed up to the coach’s ways.

“Cheng Hoe is the kind of coach who adapts to the dynamics in the team.

“He gels well with the team but he also asserts his authority when he needs to stamp his point,” said Shahrel.

“He has this character where he always wants to win. So Insya-Allah (God willing), we hope to fulfil his wish.”

Selangor are currently eighth in the league with 20 points from 18 matches, while Melaka are just a rung behind with 18 points from 18 games.