PETALING JAYA: Midfielder Endrick dos Santos wears a huge smile whenever he is on the field and his positivity has been working wonders for Johor Darul Ta’azim (JDT).
So far, he has had two starts and has scored two goals in the Super League, catching the eye with his superb passing, movement and clever runs into the penalty box.
He scored a goal each in the games against Kuala Lumpur (3-0) and Negri Sembilan (7-0).
And one should not be surprised if the 27-year-old Santos eventually earns a national call-up for the friendlies against Turkmenistan on March 23 and Hong Kong (March 28) at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
The naturalised Brazillian, however, just wants to stay focused on getting more minutes with JDT.
If he stays consistent, he knows there is a good chance for him to be a part of national coach Kim Pan-gon’s squad soon.
“I’m happy to be scoring goals and helping the team win. But, to be fair, the whole team have worked hard to maintain our unbeaten run,” said Santos.
“Scoring goals, of course, boosts my confidence, but I’m grateful too for the great team work. Everyone is working for the betterment of the team, ensuring that we remain strong.
“As for the national team, yes, the aim is there, and I want to give my best performances to earn a call-up. I know if I’m consistent, the opportunity will come.”
Even coach Esteban Solari is delighted with Santos’ form.
“He is playing for a big club for the first time, it is not easy, but he has done well so far with his goals and overall performances,” said the Argentinian.
“But JDT have a good depth, and I’m happy to be presented with this ‘problem’. It is nice to see players giving their all in everyday training, including players like Endrick.”
Santos has been playing in Malaysia since 2018, first donning the colours of the now-defunct Felcra and then joining Selangor in 2019.
From 2020 to 2022, he played for Penang, captaining them to the Premier League title in 2020 and helping them finish third in the Super League in 2021.
He is usually noted for his set-piece expertise and long-range shots but with JDT, he has become a creative playmaker.
His determination and perseverance are beginning to pay dividends, and if he continues with his good form, he could be an asset for the national team.
