We’ve got options: Selangor coach Katsuhito Kinoshi is ready to give Nooa Laine a chance to show his leadership qualities in the Challenge Cup second-leg final.
PETALING JAYA: Selangor won’t deny they will miss the presence of captain Safuwan Baharuddin in their Challenge Cup second-leg final against Police at the Petaling Jaya Stadium today.
But for coach Katsuhito Kinoshi, Safuwan isn’t the only one who can be a leader for the Red Giants.
The Japanese sees the Singaporean’s absence as a chance for the other players to step up and show their leadership qualities.
Safuwan has been suspended after receiving a red card in the 3-2 first-leg win, also at the Petaling Jaya Stadium, on Feb 15.
Yesterday, Kinoshi brought along young midfielder Nooa Laine for the pre-match press conference, indicating that the Finnish-born Malaysian international could be given the captain’s armband.
Katsuhito Kinoshi is ready to give Nooa Laine a chance to show his leadership qualities in the Challenge Cup second-leg final.
“I haven’t decided who will be captain, but Nooa is surely a candidate. He will step into Safuwan’s playing position at centreback or defensive midfield,’’ said Kinoshi.
“At the same time, I want all the players to step up and show their leadership qualities in this match as we can expect a tough encounter.
“In the first leg, we had to fight on with 10 players for 80 minutes after Safuwan was sent off.
‘’I hope we can end the second leg with all 11 players and also avoid going into extra time or penalties.’’
As for Nooa, he said he was ready to take on the challenge of leading the team in a game which he believes will be closely contested.
“Of course, being captain will come with added pressure but I see it as a privilege if I’m picked to lead the team.
‘‘I’m also proud that I’m in a team of strong characters where many other players can be captain,’’ said the 22-year-old, who has played 30 games for Selangor this season.
