It’s a privilege: Safee is looking forward to playing against Fabregas.
PETALING JAYA: Former ace striker Safee Sali is set to return to the game and at a higher level, playing against former professionals from around the world.
The former national striker, who announced his retirement from football earlier this year, will compete against several notable veterans in The Soccer Tournament (TST) World Championships in North Carolina from June 1-4.
The 32-team tournament is a million-dollar, winner-takes-all tournament, which features top clubs from around the world, like West Ham, Wolves (England), Borussia Dortmund (Germany) and Necaxa (Mexico).
Safee will play for Far East United, featuring players from South-East Asia, including national team players from the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. The team will be in Group D with West Ham, Dallas United and Culture by Mo Ali.
The 39-year-old revealed that the stellar names in their side include Greg Nwokolo and Marc Klok (Indonesia), Charyl Chappuis (Thailand) and Anton Del Rosario (The Philippines). Marko Simic, who used to play for Melaka and Persija Jakarta, will also join the team.
“Anton formed the team, and he is a top seven-a-side player in the Philippines. So when he approached me, he felt I was the right fit,” said Safee, who was top scorer with five goals as Malaysia won the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup.
“I am excited to be part of TST because I am the only Malaysian in this tournament. I am in good condition, and I believe I have what it takes to play against some of the best.
“I look forward to facing Cesc Fabregas (who will play for Como in the tournament), Carlton Cole (West Ham) and Clint Dempsey (Team Dempsey).
‘‘These players were top players in the Premier League.
“I also look forward to seeing Wrexham, whose owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney are top celebrities in the United States.
Safee was not thinking of the million-dollar prize but was looking forward to the exposure.
“Meeting lots of figures revered in the game would be good. And I am looking to raise Malaysia’s profile through this tournament.
“I also look forward to showcasing my skills. I might be able to do my trademark bicycle kick.
“I played this form of football during training sessions, so adjusting to it from the 11-a-side format will not be an issue,” he said.
