PETALING JAYA: Fuelled by renewed hunger, wingback V. Ruventhiran has returned to the local scene, determined to make his stint with Melaka a defining chapter in his career.
The 24-year-old signed for Melaka from Filipino side Aguilas-UMAK.
For Ruventhiran, who has played for sides like Petaling Jaya City and Selangor in the past, the transition back has been seamless.
“There’s not much difference compared to the last time because it wasn’t a long period since I left the Malaysian League,” he said.
“The only difference is that we have more matches now, including back-to-back games.
“It makes me feel more competitive compared to the Philippines, where we played once a week.”
That competitive edge was one of the key reasons he returned.
But more than anything else, it was the call from Melaka coach E. Elavarasan that sealed the deal.
“First of all, coach Ela is the biggest reason for me to come back to Malaysia.
“He gave me the opportunity to play again in the Malaysian league.
“I have always believed in his vision and his work ethic... working with him is a top-tier experience.”
Ruventhiran’s immediate mission is clear – to help Melaka find their footing in what is proving to be a challenging Super League campaign.
So far, he has started in five matches in all competitions for the Mousedeer.
The club are competing in their first Super League season after clinching the A1 Semi-Pro League title last year, and the step up in intensity has been evident.
“I want to help Melaka achieve a better position in the league.
“It’s their first season in the Super League after winning the A1 Semi-Pro League, so of course it’s a big challenge,” he said.
“It was a difficult start for me personally. But I took it positively and moved on to the next game, and that made me stronger. Slowly, I’m getting better with my performances. Everything else is good from my side, and the team are improving day by day.”
Melaka will host defending champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) in the Malaysia Cup quarter-final first leg at the Hang Jebat Stadium tomorrow, entering the tie as clear underdogs.
“It’s going to be a knockout game. It will be 100% physical and intense,” he said. “We believe that the work we’ve done over the past two weeks will help us get something positive in Johor.”
