Cheng Hoe: Mohamad Faisal is still adjusting

KUALA LUMPUR: Selangor FC head coach Tan Cheng Hoe defends sensational winger Mohamad Faisal Abdul Halim, who is yet to score for the Red Giants in the Super League this season.

The former national coach was satisfied with the performance of the 25-year-old in the previous three games.

He said Mohamad Faisal is adjusting to the Red Giants and therefore needs time to return to peak performance.

“We know he (Mohamad Faisal) played very well last season and was able to score goals, but when we look at it he’s still adapting to the team’s playing style.

“Although he didn’t score any goals, but his assists helped the team to be at the best level. I think he (Mohamad Faisal) should be commended for his quality,” the 54-year-old coach said at a recent meeting.

After three games, Mohamad Faisal, who played for Terengganu FC last season, is yet to make a name for himself as a goalscorer but has repaid the faith in him by providing three assists in the first two games.

He scored a total of 11 Malaysia League goals last season, including six in the Super League, FA Cup (three) and Malaysia Cup (two).

He also has a good record internationally, having scored nine goals in all games with the national team last year.

Selangor has held its record unbeaten run so far this season, having recorded back-to-back wins over Kelantan United 1-0 and Kuching City (5-0) and a 1-1 draw with Sri Pahang.

They next meet Penang FC at City Stadium in George Town on Sunday. -Bernama