Staying with Giants: Nooa Laine (left) featured for Harimau Malaya when they beat Laos 3-1 in Bangkok, Thailand last Thursday.
PETALING JAYA: National midfielder Nooa Laine is determined to repay Selangor’s trust after joining the team on a permanent basis.
The 21-year-old, who is of Malaysia-Finland heritage, initially joined the Red Giants on loan from Finnish club SJK Seinajoki last February.
Although Laine had to compete with experienced players in midfield, that did not stop him from recording 23 appearances and four goal assists with Selangor.
The Selangor team management announced yesterday they have activated a permanent transfer clause in his loan contract for him.
For that reason, Laine is grateful for the opportunity given to Selangor and wants to repay the trust given to him.
“I am very grateful for the continued trust given by Selangor. I will always strive to improve my performance and contribute to the team’s success.
“As a player, I will continue to work hard to improve my personal skills and achieve my personal and team goals,” said the 21-year-old, who is currently in India with the Malaysian senior squad.
Malaysia team are preparing for an international friendly against India today.
The former HJK Helsinki youth player also featured for Harimau Malaya when they beat Laos 3-1 in Bangkok, Thailand on Nov 14.
Laine has already earned 10 caps playing for the national senior team so far.
He sees his experience with Harimau Malaya as a launchpad to be a better player when he returns to play for Selangor.
“It has become a dream for any player to represent their respective national teams. It’s the same with me.
“One of the main factors joining Selangor is to continue improving my quality and prepare for the national team.
There will be no break for Laine when he returns home as Selangor will have to prepare for the Malaysia Cup’s last 16 action against Pahang.
The first leg action of the round of 16 for Selangor will take place on Nov 23 in Temerloh.
