Kelantan coach Karathu impressed by new signings

Kelantan's on loan strikers Azamuddin Mohd Akil and R. Surendran could be the team's trump card in next month's Malaysia Cup.

The defending champions signed them from Pahang to bolster their strike force and the duo have impressed coach M. Karathu in recent friendly matches.

Azamuddin and Surendran have netted three goals between them in as many matches.

Karathu said their inclusion has improved his team's striking options.
 

"They have plenty of experience, having played a lot at this level. We have more options and this is bad news for other teams," said Karathu.

"At the moment, I am testing players in different positions to get the right combination for the Malaysia Cup. Azamuddin and Surendran have been responsive in training and matches."

The Kelantan FA signed the two strikers on loan for the Malaysia Cup as it felt the team had depended heavily on Norshahrul Idlan Talaha in the Super League, where the national striker scored 19 goals.

The back-up strikers are Khalid Jamlus, Nizad Ayub and Ramzul Zahini Adenan.

Young striker Mohd Izuan Solahuddin is in Slovakia with the national Under-23 squad, who are preparing for the Asian Zone Olympic qualifying round next month.

Although Karathu is keeping his options open, Azamuddin is likely to partner Norshahrul up front with Surendran as the super-sub.

"I hope Azamuddin will fit into my plans for if he can combine well with Norshahrul, Kelantan will score a lot of goals," added Karathu.

Kelantan, who are drawn with Johor FC, Felda United and Sarawak in Group C, are hoping to win their third title of the season in the Malaysia Cup.

The east coast side started their season by winning the Charity Shield before lifting the Super League for the first time. They were beaten by Terengganu in the FA Cup final.