PETALING JAYA: Sabah have unearthed a new local talent in rightback Shahrulnizam Abdullah (pic), who gave a superb display in their 2-0 Super League win over Terengganu at the Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu last week.
Shahrulnizam, who turns 20 today, was solid in defence and showed real attacking intent with his overlapping runs.
He also came close to scoring, only to see his shot come back off the post.
It was only Shahrulnizam’s second start for Sabah. The first came against Negri Sembilan, where he set up a goal.
Sabah’s assistant coach Alto Linus said the club had been tracking Shahrulnizam since his junior days and had been impressed with his ability and determination.
“We noticed his talent and determination, and he stood out among the under-20s. So we brought him in and in his first game against Negri, he played very well as he provided an assist,” said Alto.
“He was even better against Terengganu, so he can look forward to more games.’’
Shahrulnizam, who hails from Kampung Lingkudau in Keningau, said he was grateful to be in the starting line-up at such a young age.
“First of all, I feel blessed to be able to play in the starting line-up at only 19 years old. I am extremely happy, even more motivated, and it gives me confidence for the next game,” he said.
He began playing football in primary six and was picked to represent his school at the MSSD (District School Sports Council) level.
Shahrulnizam started out as a winger, but after being selected for MSS Keningau, he was converted to a rightback.
“That position stayed with me as I joined the Sabah Under-18 and I’m now comfortable in the role,” he said.
Shahrulnizam’s idol is Cristiano Ronaldo as he is inspired by the Portuguese legend’s industry and work ethics.
“In Ronaldo, I learned the true meaning of hard work – limitless effort, whether it yields results or not.”
He will certainly need much of that when it comes to earning a first place in the Rhinos’ competitive starting line-up.
“I definitely need to work as hard as possible as Sabah have so many good players worthy of being in the starting line-up,” he said.
