Selangor to swap roles of striker Fadzli and midfielder Safiq

Selangor striker Fadzli Saari and midfielder Safiq Rahim will switch roles in the Malaysia Cup in their team's desperate attempt to win their first title of the season.

Fadzli, a former international who has scored eight goals this season, will play as an attacking midfielder while Safiq, the national captain, will partner skipper Amri Yahyah up front.

Coach K. Devan hopes the switch, which he experimented with in recent friendly matches, will help Selangor lift the Malaysia Cup title for the 33rd time.

Fadzli is confident he will shine in his new position as he started his career as a midfielder.

"I've played in every position except goalkeeper for my previous clubs. I started as a midfielder but played striker for my former club -- Kuala Lumpur Plus," said Fadzli after the unveiling of Selangor's new fan club jersey in Shah Alam yesterday.

Fadzli's season with Selangor has not been a happy one as he missed several vital matches due to injuries. But the former international said he is fit for the Malaysia Cup.

"I have to admit that I am injury prone. I get injured easily but it does not mean I am weak. It only makes me more determined whenever I get injured as recovering is not easy," said the 28-year-old.

On Selangor's chances for the title, Fadzli said his team will be more competitive with the return of key players from injuries.

"Everyone in the team has returned to full fitness but I also hope our fans will turn up to support us as we will need that little extra to succeed," said the Kuala Lipis-born player.

Selangor, the third seeds, are drawn in Group D with T-Team, Kuala Lumpur and Police. They open against T-Team in Kuala Terengganu tomorrow. Fadzli picked Selangor, Kelantan and Terengganu as the favourites this year.

"We also cannot write off PKNS and Sime Darby as both have impressive results in recent friendlies," he added.