PETALING JAYA: Alvin Fortes has returned to the international football fold after seven years. And it is the perfect birthday gift for him.
The Selangor winger will turn 31 on Sunday and will be expected to feature for his nation Cape Verde in their upcoming three friendlies, which include two games against Harimau Malaya.
Cape Verde will play Malaysia at the Cheras Football Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on May 29, and then a closed-door friendly at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on June 3.
They will then travel to Kutaisi, Georgia, to face the national team at the Ramaz Shengelia Stadium on June 8.
Fortes, who impressed for Selangor last season on the domestic and international stage, is known for his wondrous left foot and amazing dribbling ability.
For the Red Giants in all competitions, Fortes played 35 matches, scoring 17 goals.
So it wasn’t a surprise to see him return to international duty and he intends to make an impression for the world No. 75 side.
“It is great to be back after a long time. It feels long but it feels good to be back after making my debut in 2018,” said Fortes, who played for 13 clubs including Selangor throughout his professional career.
“It is always a dream to fight for my nation Cape Verde. I will give all my power and soul to put my country’s flag high.
“And yes, it would be nice to take on the nation where I am currently plying my trade.
“There would be an element of familiarity but I know I have to do my best because they will put up a good performance.
“Also, it would be nice to take on some of my friends, especially the boys from Selangor.
“We will produce an amazing game and make the fans happy.”
Cape Verde is not only blessed with the talents of Fortes, but they also have several top-quality individuals playing in Europe.
In defence, the star of the team would be centreback Logan Costa, who recently helped Villarreal qualify for the Champions League.
The Yellow Submarines are currently fifth in the league with one game left and Costa, 24, has been ever-present for them throughout the season.
Then in midfield, Yannick Semedo, 29, from Portuguese club Vizela, Elson Mendes, 19, from French club Sochaux and Laros Duarte, 28, from Hungarian side Puskas Akademia will be tasked to orchestrate the team’s movement with their passes and tempo.
Up front, veterans Ryan Mendes, 35, and Garry Rodrigues, 34, both plying their trade in Turkey, will be tasked to look for goals.
