PETALING JAYA: With heavy defensive roles already filled by other players, the Elephants’ Argentine import Stefano Brundo – naturally a centreback – has now been forced to make his presence felt in midfield.
But the lanky 30-year-old, who stands 1.91m, has not disappointed as a middle man for Pahang.
Signed last season as a defender, Brundo was supposed to be the heart of the backline until Pahang coach Fandi Ahmad decided he needed more physicality in midfield to get the team’s balance right.
To the Singaporean’s delight, Brundo has proven to be a superb defensive midfielder and at times, even played the role of a deep-lying playmaker.
Better still, he also showed he had a huge appetite for goals, scoring 12 in all competitions.
Given his imposing height, it’s no surprise that Brundo is highly adept in the air which makes him a trumpcard during set-pieces.
Now, it looks like Brundo has owned his new role as Pahang have quite a number of quality defenders at their disposal like Mohd Fadhli Shas, Adam Nor Azlin, youngster Hasnul Zaim Zafri and possibly another foreign centreback in the form of Serbian Aleksandar Cvetkovic.
Brundo said he is relishing the opportunity to show his versatility.
“I hope to build on the good first season I had. Being a defensive player, I certainly didn’t expect to score 12 goals for the team but I’m not complaining,” said Brundo, who has featured for Argentine sides like Estudiantes BA and Atletico de Rafaela.
“Being switched to midfield was one of the best things that can happen in my career. Now, I intend to carry on making my mark in the position.”
He said he was also adapting well to life in Pahang, and that has been made easy by the warmth of the supporters.
“The supporters have really welcomed me on board with their friendliness and kindness, and I want to give it my all to help the team do well this season.”
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