Undying support: Ultras Malaya chanting for the national players during the Merdeka Tournament last year. Below: Darren Lok hopes fans will turn up for the match. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: Striker Darren Lok wishes for fans to show up as playing in an empty stadium is no fun.
Darren says plans to boycott the Merdeka Tournament will not affect the morale of Harimau Malaya but he still prefers to have the supporters make their way to the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Malaysia will open their campaign against the Philippines tomorrow.
In recent weeks, fans have voiced their intent to skip the Merdeka Tournament, with Ultras Malaya leading the way.
Why the no-show threat?
These fans claim that they were seeking justice because the criminal cases on national footballers had not been solved, the sudden resignation of Kim Pan-gon and also attacks on fans during league matches in the past.
Ultras Malaya were formed in 2007, which brought together fans from all walks of life regardless of religion, economic status and educational background. They are a group of fans from various states.
Darren said the team were ready to give their best.
“It is our job to focus on the performance and as footballers, we just want to execute the plans of the coach and do our best in the upcoming game against the Philippines,” said the 33-year-old Sabah striker.
“There have been times in the past, the support has not been as big as in recent years. But, we will focus on football and hope the fans will come for the games.
“We do need the 12th man out there because they give us the courage to give our all. To me, it is an honour to play for the country.”
Darren, known for his tireless work rate up front, said the game against the Azkals under their new coach Norman Fegidero, would be challenging.
“They have a new coach. We do not know their game plan but we cannot underestimate them because they have a lot of overseas-based youngsters.
Besides Darren, the other strikers in the squad are Paulo Josue, Romel Morales, Haqimi Azim Rosli and Syafiq Ahmad.
“In previous call-ups, we have not had many options up front. This time, we have Syafiq and we know what kind of qualities he brings to the national team,” said Darren.
“We also have Paulo there. Romel has been doing well for JDT. I am ready for any role given by the coach and my job is to just give my 100%.”
