PETALING JAYA: Kuching City captain James Okwuosa (pic)intends to do more than just lead Kuching City to a second-place finish in the Super League and a strong run in the Malaysia Cup.
The Nigerian is equally determined to help develop the club’s local talents and push them to earn national call-ups.
Currently, goalkeeper Haziq Nadzli and winger Ramadhan Saifullah are part of the national squad, while naturalised Ghanaian striker Jordan Mintah is on the standby list.
“My greatest achievement this season, if we finish second in the league and reach the final, would be seeing more Kuching City players join the national team,” said the 35-year-old Okwuosa.
“That would be my proudest moment – seeing our players represent Malaysia. I know how it feels. It helps you grow as a person and develop your future. It also gives young footballers in Sarawak role models to look up to.”
As for his leadership role, he believes it should be a collective responsibility rather than individual recognition.
“Leadership is about sharing responsibility. It’s not about one person taking the glory or always being in front,” he said.
“You have to let everyone know they are the best in their roles.
“I cannot lead in everything - whether it’s speed, defending or scoring goals. Others are better in those areas, and you must empower them. I just help where I can so the team can move forward.”
Okwuosa described the current campaign as one of his best defensive seasons, crediting the team’s collective effort.
“I’ve had good ones before, but I’m especially proud now because of the entire back line,” he said.
“It’s not just me, or Yuki (Tanigawa), or Rodney (Akwensivie), or (Scott) Woods. The whole team defend together. Our first objective is always to defend.
“The fewer goals you concede, the better your results. That is the simple truth in football.”
Kuching City’s push for second place was not part of the original plan, but the opportunity has fuelled the squad’s ambition.
They are also part of the Malaysia Cup semi-final against Selangor. The first leg will be played in Petaling Jaya on Saturday followed by Kuching on April 18.
