Khairul Fahmi wants to be No.1 again

Khairul Fahmi has only just returned to training after recovering from a shoulder injury.

GOALKEEPER Khairul Fahmi Che Mat is determined to reclaim his Malaysian No 1 jersey from Sharbinee Allawee.

 

The 22-year-old, who returned to training a few days ago after recovering from a shoulder injury, wants to defend the Malaysian goal against Arsenal today.

"I hope to start tomorrow (today) as I've never played against any English Premier League team. It will be a big honour if I am selected to play," said Khairul yesterday.

"Everyone in the team is excited about the match. We want to see where we stand against one of the best clubs in the world.

 

"But I won't be disappointed if I don't get to play as I still have the Liverpool match (Saturday) to look forward to."

Khairul's claim to fame was at last December's AFF Cup where he was instrumental in helping Malaysia win the title. He also played a key role in Kelantan bagging their first Super League title recently.

National coach K. Rajagobal, however, may not risk Khairul for the match as the goalkeeper has not reached full fitness. Second choice Sharbinee Allawee is likely to start while Nasril Nourdin is the other available keeper.

"Khairul has been training diligently since reporting back to training.

"However, he will need to fight for his place as the other goalkeepers have also been impressive of late. He looks solid in training.

"I need to be certain that he is prepared to play against Arsenal," said Rajagobal, adding that he will likely try out all 26 trainees today.