PETALING JAYA: It is familiar surroundings for winger T. Saravanan when he steps into the City Stadium in Georgetown for a Super League match today.
The only difference for the one-time fans’ favourite of Penang is that the nippy winger will be donning Pahang colours.
After playing a stalwart’s role for the Panthers in 2022, he moved to Kuala Lumpur and further impressed with his goals and assists, which saw him getting a big move to Pahang.
But since joining the Elephants early this year, the 23-year-old has struggled for game time as coach Fandi Ahmad preferred to use foreign wingers, namely Ukranian Mykola Ahapov and Argentinian Manuel Hidalgo.
Saravanan has been used as an impact substitute but is hopeful to have a bigger role when facing his old club.
“Since moving to Kuantan, it has not been easy because you have to fight top players for the flanker’s spot.
“I have had some substitute appearances to bring impact into a game, but as a footballer, you always want the first-11 spot,” said the player, who made his professional debut in 2020 for Selangor II.
“But I am young, I am learning and the coach always tells me to just trust the process. I know I am working hard in training to one day start for the team. Even if given substitute appearances, I will do my best to do something for the team.
“It is nice to return to Penang, where I first made my name in the Super League. I had good times here, so I hope if I get to play against them, I can recapture my old form and help my club get three points.”
Saravanan said he is happy to be part of the Elephants this season despite his lack of minutes because of the camaraderie in the team.
“There is banter and funny exchanges but when we train, we constantly push and motivate each other. That to me is important for any professional, so in that sense, I am really happy.
“I just want to grow as a player and I believe learning from the likes of experienced professionals in the team, especially those playing in my position, would help me a lot.
“Not forgetting coach Fandi who is always there when you need advice. He has always told me to just keep working and the reward will come.”
Pahang are ninth in the league with 11 points from 11 matches, while Penang are tenth, also with 11 points, but separated by goal difference.
