Football
Nicolas Anil 7y

Adam hopes for Malaysia SEA Games gold to earn chance to play abroad

Selangor's Adam Nor Azlin is hoping that a Southeast Asian (SEA) Games gold medal with Malaysia may take him a step closer to fulfilling his dream of earning a move overseas.

Ahead of Monday's match against Myanmar, the Malaysians are in prime position to qualify for the semifinals after victories over Brunei and Singapore in Group A.

But for Adam, his mission is more than just clinching the golden glitter. The utility man wants to use the biennial multi-sports event as his audition for visiting football agents.

"There have been a few Malaysians who have gone and played abroad, but returned after a short while, due to personal or undisclosed reasons," Adam told ESPN FC.

"For me, playing overseas is a career expansion, and I want to prove that I am capable of taking my career to a higher level. There will be scouts looking for talents here, and for me it will be executing business on the field.

"My focus for now, is however, solely on the SEA Games. We are on a winning momentum with two wins, and it is important that we continue staying tactically adept. The spirit in the team is great and we are looking forward to Myanmar."

Nazmi Faiz and Wan Zack Haikal were the two Malaysians who went to play abroad in Portugal and Japan in recent years, but both ended in brief and unsuccessful stints.

For Adam, the signs are promising. Initially thrust in a forward role for most of his career, the 21-year-old was converted to centre-back by Selangor coach P. Maniam for the second half of the domestic season.

He has been used in the same position by Ong Kim Swee at the SEA Games, with license to go forward for set pieces.

His foray paid off against Brunei with the match-winning goal, and he was given a starting role in the triumph over Singapore on Wednesday.

Adam is likely to retain his place when Malaysia face an in-form Myanmar, who became the first team to check into the semifinals after thrashing Brunei 6-0 on Friday.

"Myanmar have skilful players who are very comfortable on the ball. It is important we follow coach Ong's instructions thoroughly to deal with them. For me, it would also be about minimising any personal errors," Adam said.

Malaysia looked in good spirits as they underwent training at Shah Alam on Friday before Saturday's closed-door session.

After Myanmar on Monday, Malaysia will complete their Group A fixtures against Laos on Wednesday.

 

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