PETALING JAYA: Italian centreback Sebastian Avanzini is ready to stand tall at the heart of Kelantan’s defence in the Super League East Coast derby against Terengganu.
The 30-year-old has been a steadying presence since joining the Red Warriors, but his biggest test awaits today at the Sultan Mizan Stadium in Gong Badak, where he will face Yan Mabella and the Turtles’ attack in what promises to be a fiery clash.
Avanzini joined Kelantan from Negri Sembilan on the transfer deadline day (Aug 31), and he did not waste time in settling down.
Though naturally a defensive midfielder, Avanzini has also been deployed as a centreback and impressed in that role during the team’s 2-1 win over Brunei last week.
Terengganu will enter the match as favourites as they are sitting third in the Super League with 10 points from six matches, while Kelantan trail just two points behind in sixth.
Avanzini knows the challenge that awaits, especially with the likes of Mabella and Gabriel Silva leading Terengganu’s attack.
“As for Yan, he looks like a great striker. I haven’t played against him before, but every year there are challenges in the Super League with great strikers,” said Avanzini.
“I’m looking forward to having a great duel and a great fight with him and also with Gabriel, who looks very, very dangerous.”
Having joined the team mid-season and without the benefit of a pre-season, Avanzini has had to adapt quickly to coach E. Elavarasan’s system – even in an unfamiliar position.
“It’s always difficult to come into a season without any pre-season, so I had to do the work tactically to settle into the system.
“I was able to fit into the position as a centreback, but my main position and where I’ve excelled in my career is as a defensive midfielder. Still, it’s about doing what the team need, and I’m trying to do that.”
Avanzini made his debut in the 1-3 defeat to Police on Sept 20 but bounced back with a composed performance against Brunei.
His versatility, calmness and leadership have already earned him the trust of his teammates.
“I don’t need to say much to the team,” said Avanzini.
“In the end, it’s more important to show yourself as a good leader and a good teammate when you play the game.
“We’ll do the speaking on the pitch.”
