Terengganu sign Akhyar permanently ahead of crucial Cup clash with JDT


Key player: Akhyar Rashid has been one of the shining lights in Terengganu.

PETALING JAYA: Terengganu have been given a shot in the arm before their first-leg match of the Malaysia Cup semi-final against defending champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT).

The Turtles have confirmed that they have permanently signed mercurial winger Akhyar Rashid from JDT, allowing him to play the all-important game at the Sultan Mizan Stadium in Gong Badak today.

There were concerns among the Terengganu faithful that they would not have two of their key local players – Akhyar and playmaker Safawi Rasid – who joined them on-loan from the Southern Tigers earlier this season.

Their status as on-loan players meant they were not allowed to play against their employers, but Akhyar has now moved to Terengganu permanently, which means he is available for the game.

Only Safawi will not be available for selection as he remains a JDT player, albeit on loan to Terengganu.

Akhyar has been one of the shining lights in Terengganu thanks to his mesmerising performances on the left flank.

Known for his dribbling and close control, the Malaysian international has played 24 games, scoring eight goals and making four assists.

What makes his feat a little special is the fact that he came back strongly after being a victim of a robbery and assault case at his residence in Kuala Terengganu on May 2 last year.

“Recognising the impact this player has had in elevating Terengganu’s name in domestic competitions and at the South-East Asian level, the club officially applied to sign him permanently from JDT,” said a statement from the club.

“The application has been approved by JDT owner Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, who agreed to release the player specifically for Terengganu, allowing him to play as a permanent member.

“The club express their utmost appreciation and gratitude for this decision, hoping that Akhyar’s presence will continue to improve the team’s quality for the remainder of this season and the seasons to come.”

Akhyar expressed his gratitude to JDT and Tunku Ismail for all the support he received in becoming a professional player.

It was revealed that the decision to let him join Terengganu on a permanent basis is to ensure he gets regular minutes and to help the national team in future assignments, especially the Asian Cup 2027 third-round qualifiers beginning in March.

His deal with Terengganu will be up to the 2026-2027 season.

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