PETALING JAYA: With his signature handlebar moustache, 34-year-old Pahang midfielder David Rowley (pic) looks every bit the man of the house – the person everyone looks up to.
And he is looking to play exactly that role this season – as mentor to his teammates.
Rowley, who is into his third season with Pahang, knows he has some responsibility on his shoulders.
Despite boasting some quality experienced players, the Elephants also have some young exciting talent – and David, whose father is Australian and mother Malaysian, is looking forward to helping them break into the big-time.
“As an older player, I always try to help the younger players and give them advice. I always remember the help I was given when I was younger and I feel it’s important that I also do the same.
“I see a lot of potential in younger players like Saiful (Jamaluddin), Syaahir (Saiful Nizam) and Baim (Ibrahim Manusi) for example,” said the player who has won five caps with Malaysia.
David is also looking forward to working with the club’s new signings.
“The new signings look very promising. Our new centreback (Aleksandar Cvetkovic) has a lot of experience playing in the Swiss Super League.
“Nikolai (Mykola Ahapov) is a fast and skilful player and the club have also signed a few quality local players.
“T. Saravanan is very fast and will be a threat on the wing. I believe the club will do better this year.”
Pahang finished fifth last season but are hopeful of doing better this season with David hoping for at least one trophy.
“It would be amazing to win one cup. Personally, I will try to score even more goals for the team,” said David, who scored three goals in all competitions last year and six goals in 2022.
“Pahang are a fantastic club to play for and I love playing here in Kuantan.
“The coaches are very supportive and all the players get along very well. This team set high targets and I like this winning mentality.”
For their pre-season preparation, the team flew to Singapore for a one-week camp where they played Singaporean clubs Geylang International and Albirex, winning 1-0 in both matches.
