The demise of PKNP left coach Abu Bakar Fadzim crestfallen, but the former international has been given a new lease of life.

The former Perak star has accepted an offer to become Perak II coach in the Premier League and is looking forward to grooming the next generation of players for the state.

The 48-year-old said he was happy to continue serving the state.

“I have coached in Perak for 15 years – 11 years with the state team and four with PKNP.

“Now, I am going to continue my journey with the feeder team, ” he said.

“I received an appointment letter three days ago. I am looking forward to collaborating with coach Mehmet (Durakovic) and grooming players for the first team.

“With 12 days left before the year ends, we will be looking for players to boost the squad.

“So far, we have kept Khairul Asyraf Sahizah and Ahmad Sukri Abdul Hamid from PKNP.”

Last month, Malaysia Football League (MFL) announced that PKNP, who were already relegated to the Premier League, would be Perak’s reserve team.

The MFL said they had approved the team’s application, but stressed that it was a conditional approval until the association fulfils the requirements for reserve teams.Reserve teams are feeder teams who take part under state FAs.

PKNP finished 11th in the Super League with 16 points.

Abu Bakar said he was looking to rope in Perak President Cup players from last season, and has indicated that several PKNP President Cup players would be added into the team roster.

He said he was looking to groom more youngsters but would need the help of some experienced players.

“We have Khairul and Sukri for that. Also, we are bringing in Hamizul Izaidi from Perak. The team will comprise mostly of players who are under 21.

“I am looking forward to this challenge. It will be different for me this time around because I am working to boost options for the first team.

“So, I have to make sure the players are ready for Super League action. The players should play, thinking about getting the break into the big-time.”

Abu Bakar only had kind words for his colleague Durakovic, who is set to have a riches of players with the introduction of the feeder team next season.

“Mehmet is looking forward to working with us. He is someone who believes in tapping into the dynamics of each player, so I will do my best to meet his standards. As coaches, we are looking to help each other.”