PETALING JAYA: Looks like meeting his ex-Selangor teammates has evoked the good memories Yazan Al-Arab (left) had in Malaysia.
After helping his nation Jordan beat Malaysia 4-0 in their opening Group E fixture of the Asian Cup at the Al-Janoub Stadium on Monday, the 27-year-old declared that he would love to play in Malaysia again.
But that will not happen due to a suspension meted out to him last year.
On Nov 20, The Football Associa-tion of Malaysia (FAM) disciplinary committee announced that Al-Arab was banned for life from Malaysian football.
The action was taken after Al-Arab kicked and spat at the match’s referee in frustration after the final whistle between Selangor and Terengganu in the second leg of the Malaysia Cup quarter-finals at the Petaling Jaya Stadium on Sept 24.
After the incident, the Red Giants terminated his contract on mutual consent immediately after a disciplinary inquiry was done.
FAM meted the lifetime ban after he violated Article 51, paragraph 1(a) and Article 59 of the association’s Disciplinary Code but said one can appeal against the decision.
And he is hopeful that the body could reduce the suspension and hear his appeal.
“That was against Terengganu, it was a hard moment for me. After that match, I did not play football for three months until my move to Iraq with Al-Shorta in January,” he said.
“I hope the football bodies can take another decision and help me to play in Malaysia again.
“I love Malaysia and its people. I miss the fans there, especially Selangor. I want to congratulate them for getting to the AFC Champions League Two.”
As for the win against Malaysia, Al-Arab was one of the standouts for the Chivalrous Ones with his superb performance as a last man.
He made two blocks, four clearances, three interceptions and five recoveries.
“It was a hard game. We gave our 100% because we respect Malaysia. We pressed high in the first-half and got three goals,” said Al-Arab.
“In the second-half, we played in the mid-pressure and successfully scored another goal. Now we are on top and look to focus on the next game against South Korea on Saturday.
“I believe in my players and the team. We tried to give the best. Everyone was aggressive and fought for every challenge. I did not expect four goals but most importantly, we got the win.
“We hope Malaysia, in the next two games, can do something. They have good players and a good team.”
