Fazly Mazlan
PETALING JAYA: A winning start against Myanmar today is the perfect birthday gift for Fazly Mazlan.
It is also the best way to show that he has risen from the ashes.
Fazly last played for Harimau Malaya four years ago, with many hailing him as the country’s top leftback.
But injuries hampered his progress, which saw him leaving Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) to join Pahang on loan from 2020 to 2021.
He then signed for Selangor this year and showed glimpses of his old form, playing 28 games in all competitions for the Red Giants.
Fondly known as BJ, his aggression and left-footed crosses are his assets which caught the eyes of national coach Kim Pan-gon.
He is now gearing up for the AFF Mitsubishi Cup and hopes to play a big part in the 10-nation tournament.
But he knows he will not be a shoo- in for his favourite position as he will be up against new club mate V. Ruventhiran.
Malaysia open their Group B campaign against Myanmar at the Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon at 6pm today and Fazly hopes to be in the starting line-up as an early birthday gift. He turns 29 tomorrow.
Fazly revealed that he initially found it tough to adapt to Pan-gon’s tactics but after a few weeks, he now has a grasp of the ‘Malaysian DNA’.
“Earlier, I found it hard because his system and tactics are different from my club. Now I know what is wanted from all the players.
“He wants us to be aggressive and go all out. For his plan to work, every player has to be disciplined. When we attack, we sometimes lose the ball, so we have to counter-press and work harder. In his team, only the strongest survive.”
Fazly knows a winning start is crucial to build momentum and help boost confidence.
When asked about the squad which is devoid of key players like Shahrul Saad, Matthew Davies and La’Vere Corbin Ong, he said the chemistry between the other players remained intact and they have what it takes to mount a serious challenge.
“The coach has prepared us well and we are ready for Myanmar. Despite some of us being new faces, there’s no pressure. We want to go as far as possible.”
