Felda’s Khairul can’t wait to continue fiery form when league resumes

Felda United striker Khairul Amri (pic) is one footballer who takes adversities in his strides.

Last season, the 34-year-old former Singapore international was bogged down by knee and back injuries but the 2019 mid-season signing still managed to score seven vital goals in 10 matches to help Felda escape relegation.

Starting this season fully fit and injury-free, Khairul has scored two goals in four Super League matches.

What’s more alluring is Khairul’s efficient combination with Felda’s front three – Japanese winger Ryutaro Megumi, Argentinian winger Nicolas Velez and Gabonese international striker Frederic Bulot. The foursome have been a handful for opposing defenders to handle.

And Khairul was looking forward to building on their superb chemistry when the coronavirus outbreak put a spanner in the works as all football matches in Malaysia and around the world were postponed.

Having battled relegation and injuries, Khairul is prepared for what’s to come.

And he’s ready to take the challenge head-on and wants his teammates to live up to their Fighters moniker.

“We had a decent start if you ask me. Out of four matches, we have collected five points to be placed sixth, not too bad, ” said Khairul.

“Tactically we have looked good and things have settled down for us after the second game against UiTM.

“I hope we can build on this momentum once the league resumes. With the players that we have, I believe we can pull off something good.”

This season, Felda have made several new signings and even brought players from several Felda settlements to the main squad.

“The young boys have been great. They are eager to learn. But in football, without hard work, you cannot go far.

“These youngsters are putting in extra shifts during training, so they will only get better.

“As for my combination with Ryu (Megumi), Nicolas (Velez) and Bulot, it is good because they are all experienced. Bulot and Velez have played in Europe, while Ryu played with me at Singapore club Tampines.”

Due to the movement control order (MCO), players have been encouraged to train indoors.

“My family is in Singapore, so I am alone at my apartment in Bangi.

“I am just adhering to the instructions given by the government. I hope things would subside, and we can get back to playing football.”

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