Walk in the park?: Park Tae-su during Sabah’s training session.
PETALING JAYA: Sabah midfielder Park Tae-su has a new partner in the middle of the park – Portuguese Telmo Castanheira – who is turning out to be a perfect complement to the South Korean.
Tae-su, 33, is noted for his high work rate and intelligence and the 30-year-old Castanheira’s impressive composure and technique bring balance to the engine room.
After their combination was put to the test in training and friendly matches, Tae-su believes they can inspire the Rhinos to a good finish this season.
“I’ve no problems combining with Telmo. He’s smart and assured, and I enjoy playing with him in midfield. But we have to give him some time to adapt to Malaysian football,” he said.
Tae-su added that the competition for midfield spots is also stiff with the likes of Irfan Fazail, Baddrol Bakhtiar, Gary Steven Robbat and Stuart Wilkin fighting for regular starts.
“Stuart, Gary and Irfan have their qualities to be regulars, so that will keep us on our toes and not take anything for granted.’’
Tae-su was outstanding for Sabah last season, scoring eight goals in 25 matches as the Rhinos finished third in the Super League.
Most of his strikes were also memorable, coming in the form of long-range shots, stunning free-kicks and thumping headers.
The fans can expect more of that from him this season, but Tae-su’s central role is to keep the team’s defensive shape intact as a holding midfielder.
“I intend to play my part well again as I want to see Sabah fly higher compared to 2022. I also hope we can cause a shock in the AFC Cup.”
