PETALING JAYA: Young Selangor wingback V. Ruventhiran (pic) claims he has had an ‘’unforgettable’’ season last year – but it’s not for the usual reasons.
The 22-year-old national Under-23 player made only three starts in 13 games for the Red Giants, and endured much pain in September when he suffered a fifth metatarsal fracture (bone connecting the ankle to the little toe).
That setback kept him out of action for an agonising three weeks.
Ruventhiran said the experience was an eye-opener as it made him reflect on the demands and hardship of being a professional player with a top side.
‘’I would say this is the most unforgettable season for me so far... not because it was great. It’s the lessons that I learnt from the painful experience of getting injured and not being able to start matches on a regular basis,’’ he said.
‘’It taught me how to be a true professional as I learnt how to cope and deal with injuries.
‘’I also did some yoga to help me get through the difficult period.’’
Ruventhiran added that he constantly reminded himself that playing for a team like Selangor, who have a proud tradition and history, required a certain mentality and attitude.
‘’That is something that I’m always learning from my coaches and teammates, and I thank them for their support during my time out because of the injury.”
The former Petaling Jaya City player was relieved to be back in action recently when he featured for the Malaysian Under-23 side in two friendly matches against China in Shanghai.
The Harimau Muda, under the tutelage of Spaniard Juan Torres Garrido, beat their Chinese counterparts 1-0 on Dec 23 but lost the second game 2-1 three days later.
For Ruventhiran, he was surprised to be called up by Garrido so soon after recovering from his injury and is thankful to be part of his plans for the AFC Under-23 Asian Cup later this year.
“The chance to play in China gave me much happiness and I’m highly motivated to regain my fitness and sharpness as I have the Asian Cup in mind,’’ he added.
