PETALING JAYA: Gary Steven Robbat is back for Sabah, and he will do whatever it takes to help the Rhinos finish third in the Super League for the third consecutive season.
The 32-year-old, who suffered a slipped disc in the 0-4 defeat against Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) on Jan 11, missed five league matches to focus on recovery and rehabilitation.
In those five matches, Sabah only won one, beating Negri Sembilan 2-1, and then drew against Pahang (2-2), Kuala Lumpur (1-1), Selangor (0-0) and Terengganu (2-2).
With Gary returning to full training last week, Sabah hope they could snap their four-game winless run.
The combative midfielder will want to play a part when Sabah take on Police at the Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu on April 5.
“I have returned to full training after a slipped disc injury. I have done my rehabilitation pretty well, so it feels good to be on the field again, kicking a ball,” said the former Harimau Muda player.
“I want to get three points, move to third and stay there. The next three league matches are crucial, so you can see the commitment shown by the players during training sessions.”
When asked what was it like being away for more than two months to remedy his slipped disc, Gary said he had it before but this time knew what needed to be done.
“I had slip disc before. This time, the disc came out and tore. It was painful but the rehab was good, I was strong. It won’t be fully recovered but I have done a lot of strength training to ensure I can play games.”
Sabah are currently fourth in the league with 36 points from 21 games, playing a game lesser than third-placed Kuching City, who also have 36 points.
As for his future with the club, Gary said talks have not started but he is only focused on completing the current season.
