2010/02/20
By Devinder Singhdevinder@nst.com.my
FEW players would forego the chance of playing in the local league but national defender Muslim Ahmad is prepared to do just that as he eyes a playing career in Europe.Gunalan came to prominence with the national team at the 1986 Asian Games before even having made his debut with Kuala Lumpur. It was only on his return did he get to play in the local league when he moved to Selangor the next season.
Similarly, Muslim was part of the national Under-23 side which ended a 20-year gold medal drought in Vientiane last December and has yet to play for Terengganu, his home state.
But, unlike Gunalan, he has played in the local league, featuring prominently in the Young Tigers' run to the Premier League title last season.
"I don't really care if I play in the local league or not as my ambition is to land a playing contract with a European club.
"This trip to Slovakia is so important in that regard because I'm sure there will be scouts from the Slovak clubs watching. That is why I have to perform to my best," said Muslim before the national Under-21 team left last night for Bratislava via Dubai and Vienna to play in the Slovak Under-21 league.
Muslim formed a solid defensive partnership with Aidil Zafuan Radzak at the Sea Games and although he is third in the pecking order in the national team behind national skipper Norhafiz Zamani Misbah and Aidil, he has already earned six senior caps.
When the national squad assemble for the first time this year next week, Muslim will not be among them and he fears he may fall further in coach K. Rajagobal's plans.
"Of course, I'm a little worried about my place in the national team. I'll be in Slovakia at the time but all it does is make me more determined to fight for my place when I return. That is a promise," said Muslim, the national under-21 vice captain.
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/articles/68FORR/Article/index_html
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