PETALING JAYA: Just two years after being questioned by his own fans, Selangor’s Quentin Cheng has stormed back into the national spotlight.
With back-to-back standout displays for Malaysia in the September international window, the 25-year-old has regained his status as one of the country’s top wingbacks.
Quentin came off the bench in the 2–1 win against Singapore before starting in the 1–0 victory over Palestine, where he provided the assist for Joao Figueiredo’s decisive strike.
It was the clearest sign yet of Quentin’s evolution from a once-raw winger to a full-fledged attacking wingback capable of changing games at the international level.
“This camp was a positive one,” Quentin said.
“As a team, two wins were the objective, and I’m glad we did that. On a personal note, I was excited to have been given the chance to play in both games and show what I have to offer.
“To get the assist against Palestine was an amazing feeling.”
Born in Sydney to Malaysian parents, Quentin, who hails from the Central Coast Mariners Youth Academy, started his career in Australia with North Shore Mariners and Sutherland Sharks before making the move to Selangor in 2020.
He was first spotted at the 2019 SEA Games under Datuk Ong Kim Swee, and it was during a loan spell at Penang in 2021 that he was converted to a wingback - a shift that has since defined his career.
His path, however, has not been without challenges. The 2023 season saw Quentin face heavy criticism from Selangor supporters for inconsistent displays.
But instead of faltering, he responded with steady improvement each year, eventually forcing his way into the Malaysia set-up, where he has now earned 11 caps.
“I think I’ve just been patient and trusted the process. Working hard every single day was non-negotiable. And I think I’ve developed a better understanding of the position over the years.
“The wingback position suits my qualities. I enjoy the freedom to take risks and attack, and I hope to keep contributing in the coming games.”
Malaysia coach Peter Cklamovski and his staff have played a role in sharpening Quentin’s game, something the player himself acknowledges.
“Coach Peter and the rest of the staff are very professional and have high standards. So this filters down to the players. They give clear instructions, and they’re always motivating us to do our best.”
For Quentin, the next step is consistency at the club level. He will surely be relied upon when the Red Giants take on A1 Semi-Pro team Malaysian Universities in the FA Cup round-of-16 second-leg match at the Petaling Jaya Stadium on Saturday.
The Super League side have a 3-1 aggregate lead from the first leg.
