After falling short last year, young striker Sean Eugene Selvaraj plans to make it count this time round and make the cut for the national Under-22 team which will leave for China in a week.
The 21-year-old Sean received his first call up to the national youth side last year but failed to make the cut for the team under German Frank Bernhardt.
But this time round, Sean feels confident with the second chance that was given by new U22 head coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee.
“It’s still early too early to be satisfied with myself as the selection trial is still on-going,” said Sean.
“Receiving the call to be given the chance to play for the country means a lot to me personally.It would be an honour and a dream come true to play for my country at the SEA Games this year as we will be playing in our own back yard.
“It will be even more memorable if I can help Malaysia to a golden finish.”
Selvaraj, who has the overwhelming support of his family especially his mother, also hopes to follow in the footsteps of his role model – national striker Amri Yahyah.
“Amri is not young but he is still plays for the country as if it was his first time. And he has achieved so much in his career,” added Selvaraj, of the Selangor striker who has won a handful of titles including the Super League (2009, 2010, 2014-2016), Premier League (2005), Malaysia Cup (2002 and 2005), FA Cup (2001, 2005, 2009, 2016), AFC Cup (2015), and AFF Suzuki Cup (2012).
“He is definitely a role model for me and I hope that I can have as illustrious a football career as Amri had.” – BY ALVIN OH
