PETALING JAYA: It’s a ‘dirty’ job but somebody’s got to do it.
That, arguably, sums up the unenviable task of a midfield enforcer. It takes a steely character with high workrate and combative qualities to neutralise the opposing midfield attackers, and to assist the defenders in keeping the backline safe.
In the Harimau Malaya side under Kim Pan-gon, that role has been ably filled by Syamer Kutty Abba.
The 26-year-old utility player has shown the South Korean coach that he’s worth taking a chance on, after a solid display in the 4-1 friendly win over the Solomon Islands last Wednesday.
The Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) player featured for the full 90 minutes of the game, going about his often thankless job of winning back possession and constantly pressing the opposition.
It can be easy to underrate Syamer for his unglamorous role but he also has the ability to carry the ball forward and his direct runs also help the attack at times.
But no matter how he is rated, Syamer is a professional who intends to get better every time in the role referred to as the ‘’water carrier’’.
‘’It’s a tough job, and it comes with much pressure. But I’ve no complaints ... this is a role that I play well.
“And each time I put on the Malaysian jersey, my commitment is total. I push myself to the fullest to ensure that our country wins,’’ he said.
‘’I take every game seriously, whoever the opponent is. We need to have that mentality to do well at the Asian Cup next year.’’
Syamer hopes to help Malaysia to another convincing win in their next friendly against Papua New Guinea at the Sultan Mizan Stadium in Gong Badak, Terengganu, on Tuesday.
He expects the game to be a tough one, as the Oceania side held Singapore 2-2 at the Singapore Sports Hub on Friday.
“The goal we conceded against Solomon Islands will be a lesson to us.
“These teams always play extra hard against us and we can’t afford any lapses in focus.
‘’We must be disciplined in following the game plan set by the coach and to execute it.’’
With eight months left before the Asian Cup in January next year, Syamer is hopeful that he can stay fit and consistent to play on that big stage.
“Ever since I was a boy, my dream was to play for Malaysia. Now that I’m here, I intend to add more caps and go on to play on the big stage.’’
