Best in the business: La’vere Corbin-Ong (right) is probably the No. 1 left wingback in Malaysia.
PETALING JAYA: Johor Darul Ta’zim’s La’vere Corbin Ong has reconfirmed that he is the country’s No. 1 left wingback after sterling displays in the friendlies against Turkmenistan and Hong Kong.
The 31-year-old, who has now won 24 caps with Malaysia, showed excellent mobility, moving up and down the left flank with ease despite his advancing age.
While many are already saying that his position is assured for the Asian Cup next year in Qatar, Corbin isn’t taking his spot for granted.
He is still as motivated as ever to improve himself at the club and international levels.
‘’I try to better myself every day and I’ve never stopped doing that as a professional. Any position in the team is highly competitive and we must be at the top of our game every time,’’ he said.
Corbin played a key role in helping the team keep clean sheets in the games against Turkmenistan (1-0) and Hong Kong (2-0), standing out with his physicality and quick interceptions.
But he was quick to downplay his individual display by saying it was the team effort that made the difference.
“It’s not just the defenders. The whole unit – goalkeeper, defenders, midfielders, wingers and even strikers – played their parts in helping us to to keep clean sheets.
“The new players, naturalised and mixed heritage like Paulo (Josue), Endrick (dos Santos) and Nooa (Laine), have blended well with us.
“Everyone is a Malaysian in the team now and we are united.”
