Pahang’s midfield boosted by young upstart Saiful
PETALING JAYA: Pahang can count on youngster Saiful Jamaluddin to step up in midfield in the Super League.

On Saturday, Pahang beat Kelantan 1-0 at the Temerloh Stadium, thanks to a beautiful free kick by Manuel Hidalgo in the 54th minute but coach Fandi Ahmad had praise for another star in the making – Saiful.

The 21-year-old has emerged with his good show in the presence of top playmakers Kuvondik Ruziev and Nor Azam Azih.

Fandi was pleased with Saiful for his disciplined performance.

“Saiful was like the wiper, cleaning up the midfield with his interceptions and passes. I wanted a fighter and he showed he’s the one.

“We have a defensive midfielder now who is tactically disciplined,” said Fandi.

Saiful was modest and felt he could have done better.

“I’m not too satisfied because that is not my optimum game. God willing, I will do better in the next game,” said the soft-spoken player, who played for the Malaysia Under-23 in the recent AFC Under-23 Asian Cup.

Saiful said he has been learning a lot from Azam, who has been with the club since 2015.

“We know his reputation in the team.

“He kept telling me what to do and which position to be in during the game against Kelantan. It was invaluable,” said Saiful.

“I believe we have a strong squad this season. The club want to finish third, which I believe is possible because we have good-quality players.”

Pahang will next face Kuching City on Sunday.
Football,Super League,Pahang,Saiful Jamaluddin,Fandi Ahmad
PETALING JAYA: Pahang can count on youngster Saiful Jamaluddin to step up in midfield in the Super League.